Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography)

Summary

This position is assigned to the Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Service at the Central Virginia VA Health Care System in Fredericksburg, VA. Employees at this level are fully functional as a DRT and are able to carry out their assigned tasks independently without any supervision.

Duties

['At the GS-9 level duties include but are not limited to: Incumbent will spend 90% of time in CT and 10% of time in diagnostic general radiology. This level may have varying assignments to include special and complex procedures. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level. The position is that of a registered diagnostic technologist with skills in CT. Performs Computerized Tomography exams of the head, neck, spine, chest, body, and extremities. These exams are performed with the use of oral and IV contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies of superior quality to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. Incumbent will also perform general radiology exams and other tasks as assigned. Working knowledge of the PACS system, VISTA, and CPRS computer programs. Ensures images are transmitted successfully. Will maintain ARRT licensure requirements. Meets all VA standards for continuing education. Must possess specific knowledge of cross-sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or, multi-slice computer tomography, inclusive of 3-D reconstruction systems. Exams may include drainages, biopsies, cystograms, colonography, 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 particular interest to the physician. Performs daily inspection of CT scanners and 3-0 workstation to ensure proper mechanical functionality. May be asked to perform daily, monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual Quality Control testing. Works with Physicist to ensure compliance with radiation safety program, yearly inspections, and for acceptance testing of all new installations of equipment. Maintains accurate records, as required by management, for quality assurance analysis, quality control, performance improvement, and other related purposes. Will assist Supervisory Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist in the establishment and implementation of processes, policies, and protocols for the service. Will also assist in the Radiology Department performing all aspects of routine radiology procedures. This includes use of portable x-ray machine, proper techniques, positioning knowledge, radiation safety, orthopedic exams, and other related procedures as needed. May include fluoroscopy and the use of a C-arm. Perform other directly related duties as assigned. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized']

Qualifications

Citizenship. Be a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g.) Education. Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the 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).] 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), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), [or Mammography (M) duties performed independently, as applicable]. 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.] Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Employees at this level are fully functional as an advanced DRT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. DRTs at this level may have varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level, clinical instruction, and basic QM type duties within the program. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs: Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Knowledge of Current Radiologic Technology Practice. To be creditable, experience must have demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics (also referred to as clinical competencies) associated with current radiologic technology practice. This may have been evidenced by the equivalent of one year of active practice, which is paid or non-paid employment as a DRT as defined by ARRT. Quality of Experience. Experience is only creditable if it was earned after completion of the basic certification requirements. Experience as a graduate DRT is creditable provided the candidate functioned as a DRT and subsequently passed the certification examination. Credentialing Standards. Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel. Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field. Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). Physical Requirements: 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; ability to distinguish basic colors; hearing (aid permitted); and speed in working. Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time.