The Radiology Computed Tomography Technologist is responsible for performing computed tomography. Exams are often performed with the use of contrast materials. These exams are to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment.

Duties

a. Performs computerized tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest and body with and without the use of contrast materials. b. Participates with scheduling exams in a manner so as to optimize scanner times and reduce wait times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. c. Confers with radiologists to determine requirement of nonstandard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of Computed Tomography scanning. Advises and notifies radiologists or referring physicians of examination results requiring their immediate attention. Works closely with Radiology Nursing staff to achieve common objectives during special procedures. d. May perform exams, such as biopsies, and drainage placements utilizing surgical sterile techniques. This may require "scrub-in technique," preparation of surgical trays, preparation of contrast, supplying of catheters and guide wires, sterile assurance of the patient and equipment that may come in contact with the sterile field with the purpose of assuring that all preventive measures have been taken to prevent contamination of the patient. e. May assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologists in the performance of the exam. Must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition, sterile field, catheter and guide wire sizes and configurations, etc. The alertness of the individual is essential to prevent contamination, recognize patient reactions, anticipate technique factor difficulties, etc. f. Prepares contrast materials. These contrast materials are used in the exams performed in the special procedure area and the Technician must know the effects and reactions to the contrast. Improper use or administration of the contrast materials run the risk of patient mortality and, therefore, it is essential that a thorough understanding of the contrast material use is possessed by those who prepare it. In addition, must be continuously alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. g. Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patients, staff and self. This is achieved by the use of lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead lined walls and collimation. Film badges are worn by the technicians in compliance with radiation regulations. h. Performs image reconstructions on advanced workstations as directed by the radio lo gist or as part of a given study. i. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. This includes registration and editing of patient exams in the computerized information system, copying of images (to CD or film), logging patients on the HIS-RIS work list, assuring accuracy of information associated with images, and correct images are attributed to correct patient records. j. Properly identifies patient images. This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient images does not occur. The technician must be certain that the patient I.D. band or stated name by patient and the request are identical. Just prior to the exam, technician performs final timeout to assure that patient identification matches the record on the control panel for the patient record. k. Responsible for the intravenous injection of contrast media. Prepares and administers contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams that require injectable contrast solutions. I. Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that patients understand what is to be done as well as what hazards, if any, are possible. m. Responsible for maintaining regulatory compliance as stipulated by agencies such as JCAHO, IG, VHA, and local VA facility, as well as department policies. n. Continually reviews new developments in the field of computerized tomography. Is continually on the alert to improve quality of exams utilizing the new technologies available. The purpose of this review is to provide the patients with the best possible scans for diagnostic purposes. o. Responsible for the accurate capturing and maximization of "CPT" codes per procedure. p. Participates in mentoring or trains new technicians in digital computed tomography and other special procedures. Assists the Lead Tech in developing formal orientation, training, and evaluation programs. Instructs subordinate technicians on specialized tasks and new/modified procedures/policies. q. Participates in "on-call" for Computed Tomography Scan and Special Procedures as assigned. r. Other duties as assigned. Work Schedule: Monday through Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 92924-A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Available 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. 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. Exception for Non-Certified, Entry Level Candidates. This exception only applies at the GS-5 entry level technician. For grade levels above the entry level, the candidate must be certified. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). Specialized Assignment: 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.] 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. 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). References: VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G25, DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGIST QUALIFICATION STANDARD, GS-0647, December 13, 2019. Preferred Experience: Registered in CT The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 9. Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. DRT's work requires long periods of standing and walking up to 8 hours. There is repeated bending, pushing / pulling, reaching above shoulders, use of both hands (hands and fingers), twisting and carrying of moderately heavy articles weighing from 15-44 pounds such as multiple cassettes, grids, as well as wearing lead aprons. Movement of moderately heavy equipment is generally power assisted such as portable machines. Positioning of patients who are disabled may require considerable effort and working in awkward positions. Heavy lifting of incapacitated patients is done only with help of other employees and devices provided by the Radiology Section. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.

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 Ann Arbor VA Medical Center 2215 Fuller Road Ann Arbor, MI 48105 US
• Name: Nikki Lane
• Phone: 734-222-7664
• Email: [email protected]