The work involves the performance of many highly complex echocardiographic-Doppler imaging studies and subsequent to the procedures, analysis of the recordings for specific measurements, e.g., cardiac chamber internal dimensions, wall thickness and wall motion to derive calculations of ventricular volume, stroke volume, ejection fraction, cardiac output and abnormalities of left ventricular segmental wall motion.

Duties

Duties and responsibilities for this position include, but not limited to the following: The incumbent incorporates the causes and results of a variety of symptoms and conditions into a plan of ultrasonic diagnostic examination. They change and develop sounding techniques to accommodate such variables as limited patient mobility, variation in physical condition or dimension of the patient, presence of prosthesis or foreign objects, and ultrasonic response of different body parts. They produce diagnostic quality images and Doppler frequency recordings using M-mode, two-dimensional, and Doppler ultrasound. The incumbent performs echocardiography studies involving analysis of the heart structure and the range of movement of component elements, such as the valves. Diagnostic ultrasound technicians initially interpret and generate measurements of sonographic tracings while they are being generated. Examinations require the constant interaction between the patient and the technician and the equipment. The equipment controls must be continually adjusted to alter amplitude and the position of the probe on the patient's body must be constantly varied depending on the technician's instantaneous recognition of the image being produced. Specific diagnostic patterns must be recognized during the test to be able to perform a proper and complete examination. Judgment and decision-making are inherent in this technology in the false positive and the false negative tracings can be obtained if the technician is not thoroughly familiar with organ pathology and technique. Utilizes Xcelera cardiology storage system. The incumbent independently performs the full range of electrocardiograph procedures, and related examinations, such as applying ambulatory monitoring devices, scanning Holter recordings, event monitor strips and editing EKG, Holter, and treadmill reports. Utilizes MUSE cardiology storage system. Receives request and/or, consults for procedures. Receives assignment for which clear precedents exist. Receives assignments that require application of standard procedures or that have special procedures identified and explained. Employee understands and carries out the appropriate requests made by practitioners or seeks assistance of the supervision when an uncommon, unique or new procedure is requested. Instructs patient pre-procedure to ensure confidence and cooperation of patient during procedures. Independently explains various procedures including need for positions on table or treadmill, monitoring equipment, adverse reactions to stressing agents. Explains requirements for accurate monitoring and necessity of diary entries. Answers question by patient and or family members. Performs MI Tech work with Holter/Event Monitoring specialty. This specialty area requires experience in applying, operating and instructing in Holter and Event Monitoring equipment. Schedules patient for application and removal of monitors. The incumbent works in cardiology Section of Medical Service in this VAMC. Additional duties include, but are not limited to: EKGs, Exercise tolerance test system (Treadmill), Cardiology Data Storage Systems, Ambulatory Monitoring System (King of Hearts & Holter monitors) Holter/Event Scanner, and Quinton Rehab Cardiac Monitoring system. Coordinates the scheduling of patients, including transportation to and from Echo lab. This includes scheduling emergency diagnostic echocardiograms, phonocardiograms, and Doppler studies. Performs preliminary study interpretations. Prepares videotapes/materials for physicians. Identifies medical emergencies and responds appropriately. Develops new procedures for special problems, as they arise, for clinical, education, or research purposes. Incumbent will assume full administrative and professional responsibility for planning and directing the work of medical instrument technicians assigned to Cardiac Lab. These duties include assigning and evaluating the work of subordinate staff; providing medical instrument technician services (EKG and Echo) in more complex cases; reviewing and making recommendations regarding new and emerging procedures; providing instruction and training to new staff; interviewing candidates for positions; recommending selections, advancements, promotions; evaluating performance, taking disciplinary action when necessary; and identifying educational or training needs. ALL OTHER DUTIES ASSIGNED. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm Compressed/Flexible:Not Authorized Telework: Not Authorized Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 00000/ 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. 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, 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. Training which does not result in official certification does not meet this definition. English Language Proficiency: Medical Instrument Technicians must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, this part. 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: To qualify for the GS-10 you must possess the following: 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. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs and the potential to acquire the assignment specific Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. 1. Advanced knowledge of complex and non-standard treatment and examination procedures and techniques. 2. Ability to plan and assist in the establishment of a completely integrated treatment and examination program. 3. Ability to evaluate new products and equipment and make recommendations concerning developments which would improve operations. 4. Ability to manage the fiscal matters of the functions supervised (which would include fund controls, contracts, and equipment expenditures), forecast resource and equipment needs, and administer the allocated budget. 5. Knowledge of and ability to provide the full range of supervisory duties which would include responsibility for assignment of work to be performed; performance evaluation; selection of staff; and recommendation of awards, advancements, and, when appropriate, disciplinary actions. Certification. Registration by the governing body of the specialty of the technician is highly desirable. Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are also desirable for employees at this level. References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/15 MARCH 17, 2006 PART II APPENDIX G27 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10. Physical Requirements: Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over, moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds, pushing, repeated bending, 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 20/50 and 20/100 in the other, both eyes required, depth perception, hearing (aid permitted). Environmental factors: electrical energy, working around machinery with moving parts, working closely with others. Good visual abilities to read equipment label, equipment gauges/monitors, and observe the patient's condition, often in dim lighting required for the exam.

Contacts

• Address Fayetteville NC VA Medical Center 2300 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28301 US
• Name: Ltanya Walker
• Phone: 919-503-8223
• Email: [email protected]