The Ultrasound Technologist coordinates a variety of technical procedures that require independent judgment, ingenuity and initiative in the application of non-ionizing, high frequency ultrasonic waves to humans for diagnosis of disease in the clinic or on the wards. Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. 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. English Proficiency: Dietitians must be proficient in spoken and written English. Licensure or Certification: Licensure or Certification is not required for this occupation; however, it is strongly desirable at GS-6 or above as evidence of possession of the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities. Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support certifications are desirable. Training which does not result in official certification does not meet this definition. 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: At least one year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level GS-08. This would be specialized experience which demonstrates possession of the knowledge required in order to provide all the aspects of diagnostic ultrasonography services. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs by an asterisk (*): Knowledge of the more complex examination and treatment procedures and techniques in order to provide training and supervision in these procedures, to evaluate and initiate performance improvement projects, and to write policies, procedures, and protocols that pertain to diagnostic ultrasonography. *Knowledge of JCAHO and other regulatory requirements. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with employees at varying grade levels. *Ability to manage and supervise employees. *Ability to provide, or provide for, staff development and training. Preferred Experience: 3 years of preferred experience (Must Demonstrate in resume) References: VA HANDBOOK 5005 PART II APPENDIX G27 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-9 only. ["The incumbent performs ultrasonography studies and prepares the processed media for interpretation by the Staff Radiologist. Ultrasound studies performed include the following: Abdomen Liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, abdominal aorta, vena cava and femoral arteries using bi-stable and gray scale real time techniques to evaluate the structures for size, abnormal contour, cysts, tumors and various pathological disorders. Retroperitoneum/Renal Kidneys, adrenal glands, nodes, and urinary bladder using bi-stable and grayscale real time techniques to evaluate. Pelvis Urinary bladder, uterus, ovaries, scrotum, and prostate to be examined with Transrectal Transducer and recorded. Thyroid Veins/ Arteries Echo venous exams (DVT studies), carotid arteries, popliteal arteries The incumbent will also: Schedule and prepare patients for exams and explain procedures to the patient while performing the studies. Obtain pertinent diagnostic examinations for the physician, which may be necessary for correlation between the ultrasound scan and the clinical history. Differentiate artifacts from normal or pathological processes and recognize electronic equipment limitations. Recognize a diagnostic scan and consult with the Staff Radiologist to determine the proper diagnosis. Provide training to student ultrasonographers from affiliated programs and facilities for the attainment of established program objectives. Practice hospital safety, radiation safety, infection control and universal precautions at all times in accordance with age and/or gender specific departmental procedures. Perform picture archival duties. The technologist captures computerized images, applies an algorithm, configures the image and verifies patients information before transmitting them to the picture archive system (PACS). This procedure requires the technologist to have a general knowledge of computer operations. Image manipulation and transmission is critical in computerized ultrasonography; lost data can only be recaptured by repeating the images. Be responsible for the quality assurance of images (positioning, labeling, technique, network information) prior to transmission to the PAC's network, and routing of exams for transmission to off-site locations. Other duties as assigned Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm *On-Call duty to provide after hours and weekend/holiday coverage with a response time within 30 minutes.* Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 0649-09 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
OUR MISSION: To fulfill President Lincoln's promise "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors" - by serving and honoring the men and women who are America's Veterans. How would you like to become a part of a team providing compassionate whole health care to Veterans?Readying Warriors and Caring for Heroes! This position is located within Surgical Services at the CAPT James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC) in North Chicago, IL. The FHCC is a first-of-its-kind partnership between the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), and Department of Navy (DoN)/Department of Defense (DoD). It is larger than just a single facility, but rather it is a fully-integrated medical care facility with a single combined VA and Navy mission. The combined mission of the FHCC means active duty military and their family members, military retirees, and eligible veterans receive health care at this facility.VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority. Join the FHCC team of energetic, career-minded professionals! For additional information, click onhttp://www.lovell.fhcc.va.gov/index.asp.