Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist independently performs routine to moderately complex radiographic and computed tomography (CT) examinations that may require utilization of contrast materials and sterile techniques. The amount of time spent in each modality will be contingent upon the needs of the department. The incumbent will work a minimum of 30% in Computed Tomography.

Duties

The technologist must be competent in the production, use, recognition, and analysis of images and patterns used for patient diagnosis and treatment. The Technologist is regarded as the expert source and the interpreting radiologist relies heavily on the skills, knowledge, and abilities of the Technologist in providing a final interpretation. The technologist requires knowledge of image acquisition in CT/X-Ray and Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) and is able to carry out his/her assignment independently. Major duties include, but are not limited to: Employee understands and complies with the laws, regulations, and industry standards which apply to their job functions and performs those functions with the highest standards of business integrity. Responsible to the radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient exposure and reducing costs. Performs routine to moderately complex radiographic procedures that may require utilization of contrast materials and sterile techniques including but not limited to general radiography, computed tomography, etc. Assist radiologists or other professional staff in the performance of fluoroscopic examinations (i.e. UGI, BE, IVP, etc.) Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams requiring injectable solutions such as IVP, computed tomography with contrast, cystograms, cholangiograms, fistulagrams, as well as other oral and rectal exams of the GI tract. These procedures require the use of needles, syringes, renografin, barium, enema bags, drinking cups, etc. Improper use or administration of the contrast materials runs the risk of patient mortality. Therefore, it is essential that those who prepare and administer contrast materials possess a thorough understanding of its usage and contraindications. This requires continual alertness to the patient's condition and other disorders. The alertness is essential for the recognition of potential patient reactions. Reactions require an immediate response to minimize harm and ensure patient safety. Therefore, CPR certification and demonstrated venipuncture competency is a requirement for this position. Determines technical factors, positioning, etc., to produce a high-quality diagnostic and/or computed tomography image and confers with the radiologists to determine the requirements for non-standard exams that do not conform to established standard protocols. Notifies the physician of scans requiring their immediate attention. Performs advanced image manipulations and/or reconstructions on workstations as directed by the radiologist, healthcare professional or standard protocol. Responsible to the radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs. Performs radiographic exams at the bedside and/or in the operating/surgical suites. Responsible for providing quality diagnostic radiographs for the surgeons and/or other professional staff on patients that are unable to receive imaging services within the radiology department due to patient incapacity or surgical requirement. Use of portable x-ray equipment, mobile intensifier units and other equipment may be required to complete the requested procedure(s). Performs invasive procedures using sterile techniques. Works with the radiologist, surgeon and/or other professional staff as a member of the radiographic team with the responsibility for anticipating technique factor difficulties, preparation of trays, preparation of contrast, supplying of required instruments and equipment (i.e. sterile packs,·gloves, syringes, etc.). Must assist and anticipate the needs of the professional staff during the performance of the exam using sterile techniques as required. Must be continuously on the alert regarding the patient's condition, sterile field, supplies and instrument requirements to assure that all preventive measures have been taken to prevent contamination and minimize hazards associated with the procedures. Practices radiation safety (ALARA) in order to reduce exposure to the patients, employee, staff, and others. Reducing exposure time, increasing distance and utilizing shielding (i.e. Lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead lined walls and collimation) will ensure compliance and minimize. Radiation exposure. Responsible for wearing film badges in compliance with radiation regulations. Work Schedule: Monday- Friday 8:00 am- 4:30 pm Functional Statement #: 00000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO): 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. 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.] 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).] 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. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). 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: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-9 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. 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. DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments: [Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist]. 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 and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): i. *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. ii. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. iii. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. iv. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. v. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. vi. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Computed Tomography (CT). This specialty modality requires specific knowledge of cross sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or, multi-slice computer tomography, inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans, including drainages, biopsies, 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 interest to the physician. [DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification.] References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25 December 13, 2019 Physical Requirements: Intermittent moderate lifting (15-44 pounds); light carrying (under 15 pounds); use of fingers; both hands required; walking (up to 4 hours); standing (up to 4 hours); repeated bending (up to 2 hours); intermittent, but possible prolonged stooping and kneeling; ability to distinguish basic colors; near vision correctable at 13" to 16"; ability to read and comprehend ordinary type and computer screens; ability to hear (aid permitted)and work in an environment with constant noise; working closely with others; high cognitive function required to work in a fast paced environment with competing priorities without loss of accuracy; emotional stability required to maintain self-control in difficult and stressful situations; ability to wear required to personal protective equipment as required.

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 Lexington VA Health Care System 2250 Leestown Road Lexington, KY 40511 US
• Name: Annette Johnson
• Phone: 352 443-2381
• Email: [email protected]