The Health Technician performs both clinical and administrative duties in support of the mission for the Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Loma Linda Health Care System, Imaging Service. The Health Technician in the Imaging Service supports patient care in the various imaging modalities as assigned to general diagnostic radiology and Special Procedures. To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. GS-06 grade level: One year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-05 grade level in the federal service); experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities (KSA's) and other characteristics to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled, in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Specialized experience includes, but are not limited to: Set up the procedure room to be used, the sterile surgical exam trays, catheters and other procedure specific sterile supplies as well as the exam/procedure room that will be used for the procedure. Prepares and readies used instruments for Sterile Processing Service. Assists with coordination of work assignments to ensure a smooth workflow. Cleans and prepares the imaging equipment and room for the next exam/procedure. Prepares the patient for his/her upcoming exam/procedure. Sets up the imaging room to coincide with the examination being performed to include the use of proper sterile procedure when needed. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. ["Duties include but are not limited to: Obtains patient histories. Conducts specific observations and examination procedures. Assists Imaging Supervisors/Technologists with tasks that are in the scope of the Health Technician. Assists Veteran with screening forms. Chooses clothing and assists or supports changing process. Assists with physical movement, such as walking or repositioning. Performs/obtains temperature, blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation measurements, measuring height and weight as needed. Assists with patient transfers. Provides general clerical/administrative support for the clinic Makes gross visual observations and identifies subtle changes regarding the patient's condition. Reports observation to appropriate health care provider as needed. Monitors/observes patients for adverse reactions and takes corrective action based on established policy and procedures. Locates and sets up equipment and all accessories and understands proper positioning. Receives and interprets requests or instructions for procedures from medical or health care personnel. Secures patients' confidence and cooperation during procedures. Assists imaging staff in multiple modalities including obtaining patient screening forms, informing technologists of implants, devices or residual metal in the body and changing the patient into scrubs for their imaging exams. Stocks the department. Performs general maintenance duties including cleaning, arranging, and restocking supply cabinets, cleaning and sorting supplies, putting away coils, and equipment, calling attention to deficiencies in supplies and equipment. Records Veteran's inability to perform imaging exams. Records Veteran's behaviors or other required charting. Records Vital Signs if required by exam. Work Schedule: Irregular Tour. TBD. Position Description Title/PD#: Health Technician (Radiology)/PD13730A Physical Requirements: Physical demands are usually moderate: Lifting objects up to 40 pounds, moving specialized equipment and assisting patients from a gurney to a procedure or scan table. Occasionally, the technician assists with the moving of heavy equipment or large patients, but this is done with the assistance of others to minimize the danger to the individual. Since many of the imaging procedures are performed using x-ray, the incumbent frequently works in and around x-ray producing equipment, requiring the use of a lead apron and other protective equipment. During a procedure, standing for extended periods while wearing a lead apron, is necessary. The incumbent must also work at a computer desk at times."]
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing care at 1,321 health care facilities, including 172 VA Medical Centers and 1,138 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics) to over 9 million Veterans enrolled in the VA health care program. VHA Medical Centers provide a wide range of services including traditional hospital-based services such as surgery, critical care, mental health, orthopedics, pharmacy, radiology and physical therapy. In addition, most of our medical centers offer additional medical and surgical specialty services including audiology & speech pathology, dermatology, dental, geriatrics, neurology, oncology, podiatry, prosthetics, urology, and vision care. Some medical centers also offer advanced services such as organ transplants and plastic surgery.