Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT)

Full Job Description

The incumbent performs computed tomography examinations on all body regions, including complex procedures with multiplanar reformations, 3-dimensional reconstructions, dynamic contrast imaging, body CT, and CT angiography.

Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Certification.

All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R).

Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT).

Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent [can operate independently] and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination.

[In modalities that require advanced certification, to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist.] Education.

Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the 2 equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from [other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).] May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).

Grade Determinations: GS-10 Experience.

At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-9) directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.

Experience includes: Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines.

Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results.

Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed.

Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers.

Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, Abilities.

In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes.

Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures, and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures.

Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment.

Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies.] Assignment Advanced DRTs (CT) specialty modality requires specific knowledge of cross sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or, multi-slice computer tomography, inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans, including drainages, biopsies, and peripheral vascular examinations.

The technologist requires specific knowledge and training in the location, appearance, and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination; to interpret the examination request accurately; to understand the functioning and inter- relationship of the various organs; to use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor, or on film, and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of interest to the physician.

[DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification.] Preferred Experience: Holds CT certification & one year of CT experience Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10.

Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work includes: Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers, good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking, prolonged standing; repeated bending; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20; ability to distinguish basic colors; hearing (aid permitted); speed in working; and emotional stability.

Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time. Major Duties:

Assist radiologists in complex fluoroscopic examinations Checks pertinent labs values and medications for contraindication to the exam to be performed and documents this review in the patient's record and/or applicable logbooks, spreadsheets, etc.

as required.

Prepares and administers contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams requiring injectable solutions such as CT IVPs, CT Angiography, CT Urograms, cystograms, cholangiograms fistulagrams and arthrography and for the purpose of performing oral and rectal exams of the GI tract.

In the case of injected contrast media, a patient consent form must be obtained, when appropriate.

These procedures require the use of needles, syringes, intravenous contrast agents, barium, enema bags and drinking cups.

Responsible to the radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed in order to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs.

Practices CT and radiation safety and operates under "Image Wisely" guidelines, maintains As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) standards.

This is achieved using lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls, and collimation.

As part of compliance with radiation safety regulations and guidelines the technologists must wear radiation exposure monitoring badge when in designated radiation areas.

The incumbent must also be aware of and practice the safety policies/procedures of the medical center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed.

Documents radiation dose for CT, Fluoroscopy, Bone Densitometry, and Operating Room C-Arm cases, utilizing Imaging Service Radiation Dose Note in CPRS Responsible for scrubbing in to assist the Interventional Radiologist to complete complex procedures including CT angiography, biopsies, drain placements, aspiration procedures, and tube placements.

Able to anticipate the needs of the radiologist and the performance of the exam.

Maintains Basic Life Support certification VA Careers - Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist: https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/I-4ku5UMvWM Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional Work Schedule: Varies.

Day Shift & Weekend; Some Night Shifts If Needed Recruitment Incentive (Sign-on Bonus): Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance): Not Authorized EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive.

Contact visn5hredrpcoordinators@va.gov, for questions/assistance. Learn more Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases.

Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child.

Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66.

Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement) Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 22099-F Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO): Not Authorized