This Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT), Computed Tomography (CT), position is assigned to the Radiology Service, Computed Tomography section within the Tennessee Valley Health Care system.

Duties

Total-Rewards-of-an-Allied-Health-VA-Career-Brochure.pdf The Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT), Computed Tomography Technologist, employee at this level is fully functional as an Advanced DRT and is able to carry out the assigned tasks independently. The Advanced DRT/CT technologist will spend equal time performing general diagnostic radiology procedures to include portable exams and performing CT examinations. Job Duties: Accurately operates a wide variety of imaging equipment to obtain examinations of acceptable quality. Technologist works under the supervision of Radiology Supervisor and rotates all responsibilities within the CT and Radiology sections. Performs all aspects of CT imaging to include but not limited to: Head, Neck, Chest, Abdomen, Pelvis Extremities, 3D Reconstructions of CT, Multi-Planar Reformats CT and Angiographic studies when requested and/or when part of a standard procedure. Performs CT Angiography of the Circle of Willis, Carotids, Abdominal Aortas, Run-Off's, and CT Myelography utilizing specialized series to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist that are used in CT, to include CT Angiography and other exams. Technologist receives and interprets all radiology requests for accuracy and maintains a thorough knowledge of the ordering process in CPRS. Performs and completes imaging studies within the established guidelines for stat, urgent, and routine exams. Technologist works with CT and Radiology schedules to assure timely accomplishment of assigned workload, making day-to-day adjustments in accordance with established priorities and additional assignments. Applies Infection Control practices and procedures for patients and staff, as mandated by the Medical Center and Radiology Service Infection Control policies. Use independent judgment and possess the ability to vary exams or treatment procedures as needed to compensate for patient's individual medical conditions and body habitus. Responsible for minor equipment adjustments, repairs, and exercises care in the handling and safeguarding of all equipment. Assists in other areas of the department as needed for patient transfers, IV starts in Echocardiology and chaperone for Ultrasound procedures as needed. Responsible for importing and exporting images and reports as requested to maintain veterans Electronic Health Records. Maintains competency and thorough knowledge of the processes for Critical, Semi Critical, and Non-Critical Reusable Medical Equipment (RME) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) that document the process and procedures for cleaning, disinfection, sterilization, and preparation of RME and follow established procedures for all RME. Complies with all safety/fire prevention rules/regulations, using protective equipment when required and provided. Technologist uses word processing software to execute several office automation functions such as storing and retrieving electronic documents and files; activating printers; inserting and deleting text, formatting letters, reports, and memoranda; and transmitting and receiving email through Microsoft Outlook. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday Recruitment Incentive (Sign-on Bonus): Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance): Not authorized When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of existing pay, higher or unique qualifications, or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade). Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year) Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience. Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child. Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66. Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement) Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 70329-F Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized 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 computed tomography (CT). 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). English Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(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: GS-10 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 interrelationship 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.] Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-9), directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Assignment: Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures. At this grade level, any assignment in a single modality must demonstrate significant complexity. Such assignments are unique, perhaps with expert specialization in complex areas of radiologic technology, Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations, and intermediate QM type duties within the program. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs: i. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices, and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes. ii. Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures, and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures. iii. Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment. iv. Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies.] References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25 December 13, 2019. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-10. Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work includes: Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers, good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking, prolonged standing; repeated bending; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20; ability to distinguish basic colors; hearing (aid permitted); speed in working; and emotional stability. Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time.

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: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.

Contacts

• Address Tennessee Valley HCS - Nashville 1310 24th Avenue South Nashville, TN 37212 US
• Name: Matthew Kale
• Phone: 828-318-7817
• Email: [email protected]