The incumbent performs computerized tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest, and body. These exams are performed with and without the use of contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. The incumbent will also perform general diagnostic exams including fluoroscopic, general x-ray and surgical procedures. The position is in Diagnostic Imaging Service at the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center in Spokane, WA.

Duties

Computed Tomography (CT): Protocol's exams in a manner to optimize scanner times and scheduling while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. Identifies scheduled procedures for the day, prepares and coordinates activities around the radiologists' availability to maximize room effectiveness. Confers with Radiologists to determine requirement of non-standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning. Performs neuroangiography, including spine, head, and neck studies utilizing highly sophisticated x-ray equipment such as computerized fluoroscopy, pressure injectors, patient monitors, etc. Performs peripheral and visceral angiography of the abdominal systems and extremities. These angiographic studies include renal, hepatic, mesenteric, aortic, femoral, etc. Performs most exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques with guidance and direction from a radiologist. This requires "scrub-in technique," preparation of procedure trays, preparation of contrast, supplying of catheters and guide wires, while maintaining the sterile field for the patient and equipment during the procedure. Works with the radiologist as a member of the procedural/radiographic team. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologists and the performance of the exam. The technologist must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition, sterile field, catheter and guide wire sizes and configurations, etc. Prepares contrast materials that are used in X-Ray/CT/angiography and other exams. 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 usage is possessed by those who prepare and administer it. In addition, must be continuously on the alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Reactions on the part of the patient require immediate attention so that harm does not come to the patient. The technologist is certified to insert IV needles for administration of contrast material when necessary. Practices ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) 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. Performs reconstructions of CT and angiographic studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. Properly identifies patient images. This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient images does not occur. The technologist must be certain that the patient I.D. band and the request are identical. The technologist is responsible for explaining exams to patients so that patients understand what is to be done as well as potential hazards, if any, are possible. The technologist is responsible for completion of the patient CT questionnaire and ensuring the medical consents are completed and placed into the EHR. General Radiologic Technology (R) (X-Ray): Assists in protocoling exams in a manner to optimize scanner times and scheduling while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. Identifies scheduled procedures for the day, prepares and coordinates activities around the radiologists' availability to maximize room effectiveness. The technologist has accountability for department supplies and equipment in their area. They anticipates needs for supplies and provides them well in advance. Responsible for explaining exams to patients so that the patient understands what is to be done as well as potential hazards, if any, are possible. Patient's condition may require the need to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate emergency protocols including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with indirect supervision. Performs general fluoroscopy procedures including BE's, UGI's, Arthrograms, Modified Barium Swallows, Minor interventional procedures and other exams using fluoroscopy. Performs myelography of the complete spine utilizing conventional x-ray units, spot films, patient immobilizers, etc. Answers to the radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed in order to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs. Performs routine diagnostic x-ray procedures when required. Operates the digital fluoro and portable units in surgery and other patient procedure and care areas when assigned. Work Schedule: Tuesday - Friday 8AM - 6:30PM, rotating call and holidays Compressed: Available Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 00000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Requirements

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. 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: U.S. Citizenship. Be a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g.) English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). 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). 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. 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). 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 (Computed Tomography), 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. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (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. References: VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G25, December 13, 2019 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. Physical Requirements: Moderate lifting (15-44 lbs.), light carrying (under 15 lbs.), straight pulling pushing reaching above shoulder, use of fingers, walking, standing, repeated bending, depth perception, ability to distinguish basic colors, and hearing (aid may be permitted). Environmental factors include radiant energy, working closely with others, and working alone.

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 Mann-Grandstaff Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center 4815 North Assembly Street Spokane, WA 99205 US
• Name: Gabriel Johnson
• Phone: (503) 220-8262 X53014
• Email: [email protected]