Diagnostic Sonographer works directly with patients and Physicians. Sonographer operates equipment that uses high-frequency soundwaves to obtain images of the body's internal organs. Sonographer operates diagnostic ultrasound equipment in inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as the operating room. This position is approved as a VHA Shortage Occupation for FY 23 and is approved for Waiver of Veterans' Preference laws.

Duties

Special Assignment. Independently carrying out the most complex laboratory procedures such as real-time 3D cardiac ultrasounds utilizing on-line and off line computer enhancement and reconstruction technology and 3D reconstruction using off-line computers for rendering real-time 3D images to specified parameters as well as teaching the correct methodology of echocardiography procedures, theory of operations, and theory of interpretation of results to trainees. The Sonographer independently performs routine to complex general ultrasound, vascular ultrasound, non-invasive upper/lower extremity procedures, echocardiography, trans-esophageal echocardiography, and contrast enhanced echocardiography. Additionally, performs EKG, stress testing, and Holter monitoring procedures. 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. Knows and understands the principles of ultrasound and the highly specialized equipment well enough to essentially approve the acceptability or reject ability of each scan. Evaluates the nature of critical and emergency procedures, and rearranges patients scheduled to accommodate them. Explains examinations to be performed to the patients so that an understanding of the purpose of the study as well as any requirements of the patients is thoroughly understood. Responsible to the Chief, Diagnostic Services and Imaging Supervisor for the quality and quantity of exams performed in order to assure a high level of acceptability of ultrasounds. Possess knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post procedural requirements for transesophageal echocardiogram or TEE procedure completion (i.e. coordination of TEE procedures with staff from nursing, anesthesia, and Cardiology to ensure adequate coverage for the procedure). Responsible for assisting the cardiologist to perform transesophageal (TEE) echocardiograms. Possesses the ability to assess factors that will contraindicate the procedure. Responsible for performing 2D and 3D echocardiograms to include M-mode, color Doppler, continuous wave Doppler, pulsed wave Doppler and tissue Doppler. Able to recognize intra-cardiac structures based on cross sectional anatomic images and motion characteristics during the cardiac cycle, both in normal and abnormal states and to do so from a variety of different planes and angles for optimal image quality. Performs complex procedures, such as cardiac studies of the four chambers of the heart and valves, utilizing M-mode and real-time scanning techniques, to detect stenotic and incompetent vales, chamber enlargement, chamber function, and pericardial effusion. Skill to use Doppler imaging system, to derive pressure gradients across obstructed vales, post-operative evaluation of artificial valves, semi-quantitating valvular regurgitation, and determining the extent of narrowing degenerative aortic vales, intra-cardiac shunts, estimates of cardiac output and provides preliminary interpretation for the Cardiologist. Maintains National Patient Safety Goals by properly identifying appropriate patient(s) for the proper exam or imaging study. This is essential so that mistaken identity does not occur. The technologist must confirm the identification of the patient prior to beginning any study by using two (2) identifiers such as last name, VA ID number, last four numbers of the patient's SS number, date of birth or, in the case of ER or inpatients, the patients ID band. It is imperative that patient and the requested exam are identical. Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that the patient understands what is to be done as well as what hazards, if any, are possible. May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas. Must report equipment malfunction in a timely manner to biomedical engineer and/or supervisor. Incumbent must be professional, cooperative and be able to work with other employees. Assists in the scheduling of exams as necessary. Evaluates the nature of critical and emergency procedures and arranges priorities to accommodate these requests. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 00000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Requirements

Qualifications

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. Education. There are no specific educational requirements for this occupation. 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. For certain functional areas at the higher levels or supervisory assignments, specific certifications appropriate to the specialty are indicated in this standard under "Titles and Certification/Registrations". For all specialties identified in this standard, Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support certifications are desirable. Training which does not result in official certification does not meet this definition. Grandfathering Provision. All persons employed in VHA in this occupation on the effective date of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title, series and grade held, including positive education and licensure/certification/registration that are part of the basic requirements of the occupation. For employees who do not meet all the basic requirements required in this standard, the Grandfathering Provision may apply. Physical Requirements. Pre-employment physical and drug testing. English Language Proficiency. Medical Instrument Technicians must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with VA Handbook. Grade Determinations: Echocardiography Technicians operate diagnostic equipment to graphically record the position and motion of the heart walls or the internal structure of the heart and neighboring tissue by the echo obtained from beams of ultrasonic waves directed through the chest wall. Registration is offered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), as a Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) as a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS). Creditable Experience - Knowledge of Current Medical Instrument Technician Practices. To be creditable, the experience must have required the use of knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics associated with current Medical Instrument Technician practice appropriate to the identified specialty area. [Specialized developmental experience obtained under supervision of appropriately certified individuals may be credited at higher levels and is addressed in individual appendices.] Quality of Experience. Experience is only creditable if it is equivalent to at least the next lower grade level and is directly related to the position/specialty to be filled. Part-time Experience. Part time experience is credited according to its relationship to a full time work week. For example, an individual employed 20 hours per week, or on a ? time basis would receive one work week credit for each two weeks of service. Training. Completion of appropriate training such as in-service training programs, on the job training, training acquired while in the Armed Forces, government sponsored developmental training programs, and/or training under physicians certified in the functional area will be allowed on a month-for-month basis through the GS-5 level. Certification. Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) as a Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) as a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) is highly desirable. Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are also desirable. Assignment. Independently carrying out the most complex laboratory procedures such as real-time 3D cardiac ultrasounds utilizing on-line and off line computer enhancement and reconstruction technology and 3D reconstruction using off-line computers for rendering real-time 3D images to specified parameters as well as teaching the correct methodology of echocardiography procedures, theory of operations, and theory of interpretation of results to trainees. Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography) GS-10 One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 grade level. And the Knowledge, skills, and abilities at the GS-9 and GS-10 grade level. GS-09 Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. 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 Echocardiography. Knowledge of JCAHO and other regulatory requirements. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with employees at varying grade levels. Ability to provide, or provide for, staff development and training. GS-10 Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. Advanced knowledge of complex and non-standard treatment and examination procedures and techniques. Ability to plan and assist in the establishment of a completely integrated treatment and examination program. Ability to evaluate new products and equipment and make recommendations concerning developments which would improve operations. Preferred Experience: Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) as a Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) as a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS). Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications. References: MARCH 17, 2006 VA HANDBOOK 5005/15 PART II APPENDIX G27; Appendix D - Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography) The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10. Physical Requirements: heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over, pushing (2 hours), reaching above shoulder, use of fingers, both hands required, walking, standing, kneeling (1 hours), repeated bending (2 hours), both legs required, ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously, near vision correctable at 13" to 16" to Jaeger 1 to 4, far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20 and to 20/40 in the other, both eyes required, depth perception, ability to distinguish basic colors, hearing (aid permitted) other: emotional/mental stability, working closely with others, working alone, may be required to use respirator mask, cap, gown, gloves.

Education

IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.

Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.

Contacts

• Address Louis A Johnson VA Medical Center 1 Medical Center Drive Clarksburg, WV 26301 US
• Name: Melissa Bartles
• Email: [email protected]