This position is located at the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Mid-Atlantic Health Care Network (VISN6), VA Medical Center (VAMC), and Imaging Service in Salem, VA. Incumbent independently performs examinations of the neck, thorax, abdomen, vessels, and extremities. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to aid in the diagnosis of and treatment of patients. Incumbent evaluates the nature of critical/emergent procedures and rearranges patients that are scheduled.

Duties

DUTIES: Thorough knowledge of Ultrasound Physics and human anatomy as related to ultrasound examination and principles necessary to obtain optimal ultrasound imaging. Ensures correct machine techniques to maximize imagery to include color or Doppler manipulation. Monitors, safeguards, and recognizes when changes of equipment or procedures might be necessary to obtain anatomy /pathology that is necessary for proper diagnosis. Incumbent has the pivotal role in assisting the Radiologist with first-hand information of what etiology/ pathology that each patient presents during their examination. This requires the incumbent to be highly skilled, highly trained and dedicated to providing the best possible examination for the patient. Incumbent maintains ARDMS registry certification in at least one area, i.e. breast, abdominal, OB/GYN, small parts, vascular, etc. Incumbent maintains BLS certification and all other local required mandatory training. Advises Radiologists or referring physician of significant abnormalities that would require their immediate attention and visualization while the patient is undergoing examination. Performs ultrasound examinations of the abdomen, neck, chest and extremities, retro-peritoneal space for the purpose of acquiring high quality examinations that assist in the diagnosis and treatment of patient medical disorders. Performs routine clerical procedures for the purpose of maintaining accurate ultrasound records so that easy recall of patient examinations may be achieved. Schedules/rearranges patients as appropriate when considering the patient history and urgency for the examination. Maintains files/worksheets of exams performed on patients. This includes the maintenance of patients scheduled, registration, status tracking and editing of patient exams in the computerized information system and sending images to PACS. Assists the Radiologist in the performance of cyst punctures/ drainages, aspirations biopsies, and catheter placements for the purpose of diagnostic treatment using ultrasound techniques. Performs exams utilizing sterile/aseptic techniques. This requires preparation of sterile procedure trays and supplies, as well as assuring integrity of the field/prevention of contamination. This is done to minimize hazards associated with invasive procedures and involves the use of sterile packs, gloves, syringes, catheters, clean-up trays, etc., after exam is completed. Adheres to hospital infection control and safety policies/techniques with emphasis on sterile technique; the storage of sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids and 'sharps'; proper attire; hand washing practices; and continuing education. Explains/gives instructions to patient prior to examination in a manner that the patient understands. This is done so that an adequate ultrasound study may be obtained and missed opportunities are avoided when patients are not properly prepped for the exam. Assists Bio Med or service vendors with quality testing on the ultrasound unit using phantoms, test tools, test check lists, etc. for the purpose of assuring peak performance of the ultrasound equipment. Follows Safe Patient Handling guidelines. Uses Safe Patient Handling Equipment when necessary. Follows Standard operating procedure for use/disinfection of the transvaginal/endocavity transducers. Work Schedule: 7:45am-4:30pm Monday-Friday Compressed/Flexible:Not Available Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Incentive of up to $10,000 may be available to highly qualified candidates. 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. Certification: Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) is highly desirable. Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are also desirable. Experience: At least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level, which is directly related to the duties of the position to be filled, and must fully meet the KSAs at that level. This would be specialized experience which demonstrates possession of the knowledge required in order to provide all aspects of diagnostic ultrasonography services. 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: GS9: In addition to the core competencies defined at the GS-8 full performance level, positions at this grade may be lead, supervisory, or non-supervisory with specialized advanced knowledge and assignments. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. KSAs 1, 2, and 3 are appropriate for all positions at this level. 1. 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. 2. Knowledge of JCAHO and other regulatory requirements. 3. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with employees at varying grade levels. Assignments. For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/15 PART II APPENDIX G27 The full performance level of this vacancy is 9. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of 9.

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 Salem VA Medical Center 1970 Roanoke Boulevard Salem, VA 24153 US
• Name: Kera Madden
• Phone: 540-982-2463 X2770
• Email: [email protected]