The incumbent serves as a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist for the Imaging Service at the VHA WNY HCS. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologists complete assignments in various specialized areas. The technologist will function in assigned modalities based on competency assessment and duties assigned based on the needs of the agency. Basic Requirements: a. Citizenship. Be a citizen of the United States. b. 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 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 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. c. 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). Specialized Assignments. Specialized areas of radiologic technology include general diagnostic radiologic technology (R), bone densitometry (BD), mammography (M), diagnostic ultrasound (S), computed tomography (CT), [ ] magnetic resonance imaging (MR), [ ] [interventional radiologic technology (IR)], quality management (QM), [picture archival communication system (PACS) technologist, MRI safety officer (MRSO), imaging administrator, clinical program director, and clinical instructor. Grade Determinations: GS-8 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. Assignments. Employees at this grade level serve as staff DRTs at the full performance level. Candidates at this grade level must be qualified to independently provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services with only occasional oversight or direction for highly complex issues. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: (a) Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. (b) Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. (c) Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. (d) Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. (e) Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. (f) Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is a GS-8. Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. ["Major Duties and Responsibilities DRTs perform procedures and examinations in hospitals or clinics under the direction of Lead Technologists and Imaging Manager. The objective of the examinations and procedures is to produce radiographic studies that are used in medical diagnosis and interpreted by radiologists to locate injuries, foreign bodies, pathological conditions, or lesions within the body. They prepare and administer contrast media and medications in accordance with Federal regulations. All DRTs must be knowledgeable in computerized [and digital radiography (CR/DR),] and picture archiving and communications systems (PACS). Verifies patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. Properly identifies patient scan by using the HIS/RIS patient identification lists, R & L markers, correct amount, and type of contrast administered, timelines for any timed examinations, patient position and all other identifying markers for that view/scan. Properly identifies areas of interest on all images, if applicable. The technologist operates digital fluoro and the C-arm, performs radiographic exams at the bedside and in the operating rooms providing diagnostic x-rays to the surgeons and professional staff on patients that are unable to be x-rayed in the Radiology. The technologist performs daily inspection of radiographic units to ensure proper mechanical functionality as assigned by leadership. Technologist must report equipment malfunction in a timely manner through the vhabuf 114 equipment email group or nursing supervisor on non- administrative hours if patient care is impacted, so as proper attention is ensured to maintain the integrity of the equipment. The technologist maintains competency and thorough knowledge of the processes for Critical, Semi-Critical, and Non-Critical Reusable Medical Equipment (RME) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) that document the process and procedures for cleaning, disinfection, sterilization, and preparation of RME and follow established procedures for all RME as applicable for appropriate modalities. The technologist provides in-service training to other technologists and students involved in the operation and maintenance of DR panels and other PACS type of operations maintained within the department. The technologist works with physicists to ensure compliance with radiation and Magnetic Resonance Imaging safety program. The technologist maintains accurate records to include fluoroscopy logs, as required by management, for quality assurance analysis, quality control, performance improvement, and other related purposes. Technologist must utilize lead aprons, lead gloves, and lead shields when exposed to radiation. Film badges are worn by the technologists and exchanged in a timely manner, which follows radiation regulations. Adheres to Radiation Safety guidelines, properly determines applying technical factors to ensure ALARA dose optimization, positioning, required views, etc. to produce and satisfy requirements for diagnostic imaging. The technologist complies with all safety/fire prevention rules/regulations, using protective equipment when required. Knows fire drill and emergency plans for work area, including location of all emergency fire equipment. The technologist ensures complete and thorough knowledge of the employee competency folder, always maintains the ability to review each section with complete understanding of the individual requirements within established guidelines. Completes all annual and/or new competencies. The technologist continually reviews new developments in the field of assigned modalities, which may require mandatory off-site training for new equipment training. Is continually on the alert to improve quality of exams utilizing the newest technologies available. The technologist maintains electronic records and files of exams performed on patients where applicable. This includes the maintenance of electronically secured spreadsheets, registration and editing of patient exams in the computerized information system and ensuring all images and required paperwork is properly filled out and scanned in to the PACS system, in the correct orientation and on the correct patient. Displays skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. They will also use the Veterans Health Information and Technology Architecture (VistA) to access information in the Medical Center Computer System and the hospital Picture Archiving Communication System (PACS) Systems for patient information storage Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #:24225-F"]
The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,298 health care facilities, including 171 medical centers and 1,113 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.
