The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) (Computer Tomography) [CT] will perform technical work in support of Diagnostic Radiology under the direction of a radiologist. Operates computerized radiology/imaging equipment as part of the diagnostic plan for patients. The DRT(CT) will utilize digital computed tomography, general radiography, and imaging network (PACS) equipment to perform a variety of routine, as well as complex computer tomography (CT) examinations.

Duties

Major duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: - Balances the needs of the patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. - Demonstrates appropriate techniques to gather relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. - Access factors that may contraindicate the procedure. - Maintains knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous skills, and universal precautions. - Knowledgeable in pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. - Maintains 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. - Maintains specific knowledge and training in the location, appearance, and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination. - Interprets the examination request accurately and understands the functioning and interrelationship of the various organs. - Uses 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 emphasizes the aspects of particular interest to the physician. - Performs technical work in support of diagnostic radiology under the direction of a Radiologist. Operates computerized radiology/imaging equipment as part of the diagnostic plan for patients. - Receives requests or instructions for procedures. Interprets requests or instructions from radiologist. - Performs computed axial tomography (CT) scanning of head and/or body, to perform a variety of complex diagnostic examinations. - Performs all aspects of CT-Scan. - Image and assist with invasive studies to include needle localizations, biopsy procedures, and, CT angiography studies. - Selects and sets technical factors for very difficult examinations. Work Schedule: Various tours to include days, swings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 593-00144-F, GS-0647-9. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

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).] Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). Grade Determinations 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. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical Knowledge, Skiills, 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. Assignment 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.] Preferred Experience: Prioritizes exams in a manner so as to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. Confers with radiologists/residents to determine requirements of non-standard exams. Utilizes highly sophisticated equipment such as computerized tomography scanners, pressure injectors, patient monitors. Prepares contrast materials that are used in CT. Performs venipuncture for administration of contrast material when necessary, adhering to hospital and department policies and procedures related to this task. Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patients, staff, and self. Performs reconstructions of CT studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure. MPR, MIP, and 3D reconstructions are utilized to achieve optimal information for a proper diagnosis. Explains examinations to patients including effects of contrast materials utilized so they understand the purpose and requirements associated with its use. Stocks all CT supplies and related materials. Performs irregular hour emergency scans, 24 hours per day, seven days a week, including holiday coverage. Performs and records quality assurance results performed per the Equipment Quality Control and Preventive Maintenance SOP, per manufacturer recommendations, and per supervisor guidance. Communicates pertinent information regarding equipment malfunctions, workspace concerns, schedule concerns, supply needs, etc. to the appropriate personnel (i.e. coworkers, CT Supervisor, Biomedical Engineering, etc.) in an appropriate and timely fashion. Trains new hires, students, and contractors in the safe and effective use of radiographic technique in acquiring suitable images for the radiologist. Reviews new developments in the field of computerized tomography and is continuously on the alert to improve quality of exams utilizing the new technologies available. Performs routine administrative procedures for the purpose of maintaining accurate patient records. Performs exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques for biopsies or aspiration of fluid of the anatomical region indicated. Performs routine radiographs, portable exams, fluoroscopy, and operating room imaging. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams requiring injectable solutions and for the purpose of performing oral and rectal exams of the GI tract. Ensures that adequate quantities of supplies are available to meet workload demands through a systemized process of ordering, receipt and inventory control. Trains new technologists in CT procedures. Helps to develop formal orientation, training, and evaluation programs. Recommends, coordinates and evaluates new or modified procedures/protocols. Requires specific knowledge in routine diagnostic radiography, including portable radiography, fluoroscopy, and operating room imaging. Utilizes PACS for acquisition, transmission, storage, and review of images, performs QC of all completed studies to ensure timely and accurate interpretation by the radiologist. Performs Quality Control procedures, which may include (but not limited to) the following: reject/repeat image analysis, lead apron and glove radiation verification. Interviews patient to obtain pertinent medical history and precise medication usage as it pertains to the examination being performed. Minimum of two years of experience in a hospital environment. High level of computer skill for accessing, receiving, sending, and manipulating data when required Resolves patient complaints without the intervention of a supervisor. Is self-directed and self-managed without supervisor intervention. Reference: VA HANDBOOK 5005/119, PART II, APPENDIX G25. DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGIST QUALIFICATION STANDARD, GS-0647, Veterans Health Administration, December 13, 2019. For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-9.

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 Las Vegas VA Medical Center 6900 North Pecos Road North Las Vegas, NV 89086 US
• Name: Herbert Lum
• Phone: 702-791-9000 X14057
• Email: [email protected]