The staffed advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT). Performs all examinations in general radiology from routine to complex independently. The technologist at this grade level are fully functional, providing diagnostic imaging services to both inpatients and outpatients at this medical center under the direction of the radiologist.

Duties

Assists Radiologists and other providers during fluoroscopic examinations. Employs knowledge of anatomy, physiology and cross-sectional anatomy to ensure quality and accuracy of examinations. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the Radiologist. Responsible to the Radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed to assure a high level of quality of radiographs while minimizing radiation dosage and reducing costs. Practices radiation safety using principles of ALARA, reducing exposure to patient, staff and self. The technologist assures compliance with radiation regulations for all staff including the wearing of film badges. Performs imaging using direct radiography and computed radiography with the images processed digitally. Registers patient procedures in the VISTA system and verifies with the patient the orders are accurate. Ensures all pertinent anatomy is demonstrated, correct anatomical markers are visible, proper annotations are made, and correct orientation of the image is set prior to transmitting to the PACS. Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming patient name and social security number. Properly identifies patient images. Maintains BLS certification to initiate response system and assist in aide to patients when necessary. Trains students in radiographic technique including positioning, exposure factors, patient identification, and environmental factors which result in optimal imaging and meet the needs of the students during their rotation at this facility. Performs portable 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 Service due to incapacity or surgical procedures. Upon request, provides digital fluoroscopic assistance in the Cystoscopy suite, the OR, Pulmonary medicine for bronchoscopy, and the GI suite. Provide digital fluoroscopy and assistance turning the room around with Pain Clinic. Performs bone densitometry examinations utilizing the DEXA scanner. Determines technical factors, positioning of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of DEXA scanning. Positions the patient and equipment to obtain desire images. Verifies regions of interest (ROI); evaluates quality of measurements for problems due to artifacts, pathology, etc.; recommends additional scanning as necessary; flags values that require -score; unreliable results, etc.); and archives results. Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in all assigned areas. Must note equipment malfunction in the notebook in each room in a timely manner and notify the Lead DRT and/or supervisor. Completes daily check list for assigned work area. Flexible and knowledgeable in basic procedures in patient reception and CD burning processes, providing basic coverage for these areas when necessary. Technologist must be professional, cooperative and be able to work with other employees and able to work alone during the off shifts and when necessary. Displays skill in using tact, diplomacy and courtesy in dealings with customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors and volunteers. Checks system for operation and assesses acceptable performance based on established guidelines. Participates in education and training opportunities related to the technical and clinical operation of diagnostic imaging equipment. Demonstrates personal initiative in following safe work practices to include; wearing of appropriate PPE (lead shielding, googles, etc.), learning and following safety rules, and encouraging all others to do the same Assists supervisor and radiologists in establishing protocols for routine examinations and makes independent judgements when necessary to deviate from standard procedures. CBOC technologist will be responsible for maintaining daily schedule access, knowledge of basic equipment failure/fixes, daily QA/QC and direct contact with providers for emergent patient addons. Technologist must be able to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure ordered and be able to communicate to the ordering physician Technologist are trained as superusers on new equipment to assist fellow technologist, physicians, residents or new employees when needed. Must be proficient following out sterile techniques during joint injections or other complex procedures that may require a sterile field. Responsible for maintaining basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiology. (MRI safety and other restrictions when using radiology equipment) Other duties as assigned. Work Schedule: Various Shifts available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Requirements

Qualifications

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 Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). Certification: All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R). 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. 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 (GS-8), directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. GS-8 experience is defined as: Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines; knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed; knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results; ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed; skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers; and knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. iv. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. All qualifying experience you possess must be clearly described in your application package. We will not make assumptions when reviewing applications. Failure to demonstrate your experience in your resume may result in disqualification. It is strongly recommended that you write to each KSA in your application package. References: VA 5005, Part II, Appendix G25 Physical Requirements: You will be asked to participate in a pre-employment examination or evaluation as part of the pre-employment process for this position. Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of the evaluation or examination.

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 Ralph H Johnson Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center 109 Bee Street Charleston, SC 29401 US
• Name: Ashley Lafi
• Phone: 708-940-8495
• Email: [email protected]