Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography)

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.

01Basic Requirements

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 5 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-submit required advanced ARRT certification] United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.

English Language Proficiency. Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English to be appointed as authorized by 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f). Certification-Documentation required. 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 technologist can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination. Education-Submit documentation.

Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the 2 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. Grandfathering Provision. All persons employed in VHA as a DRT on the effective date (12/13/2019) of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title, series and grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation.

02Grade Determinations

In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates: 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. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.

The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures.** Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers.

Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure.** Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Assignments. 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. Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-9.

03Physical Requirements

The work requires long periods of standing and walking. There is some bending, lifting, and carrying of light items such as CR film cassettes. There is occasional moderate exertion such as lifting multi-exposure film cassettes or assisting other technicians in lifting and positioning patients. Heavy lifting of totally incapacitated patients is done only with the help of other employees.

The Lake City VA Medical Center Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist at this grade level is qualified to provide Computed Tomography (CT) Diagnostic Radiology services performing technical work in support of Diagnostic Imaging under the direction of a physician. Operate all computed tomography equipment, and assist the radiologist in biopsy, drainage, microwave ablation, and peripheral vascular procedures as part of the diagnostic plan for patients.

The technologist will work closely with CT and radiology students, mentoring and providing guidance with examinations during all aspects of their clinical rotations. Support radiologists or other medical officers to produce computed tomography studies used to diagnose medical conditions. Functions include but are not limited to: Receive patients, properly position the patient for a wide variety of examinations, make necessary exposures, and prepare the CT suite and equipment.

Positively identify each patient by asking for two (2) forms of identification. This includes but is not limited to, full name, full social security number, or date of birth. Perform computerized tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest and body with and without the use of contrast materials. Perform a spectrum advanced imaging examinations. Possess specific knowledge of cross sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or, multi-slice computed tomography.

Ensure that relationships with management, co-workers, students, patients and others within the organization are consistently courteous, respectful, cooperative in nature, and overall contributes positively to the effective operations of Diagnostic Imaging. Record CT scan radiation doses, contrast amounts, intravenous (IV) placements and document information in electronic software to dictate in the patient's report. Report all equipment failures in a timely manner.

Utilize electronic software such as Vista and CPRS to look up pertinent patient information that relates to patient examinations; including pertinent laboratory reports, nursing notes, radiology orders/consults, physician notes, allergies, and radiology reports. Practice radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patients, staff and self.

Set up and operate a variety of ancillary equipment within the department including but not limited to, oxygen tanks and regulator, vital monitors, defibrillators, and suction equipment. Performs quality control/assurance checks on completed CT scans to ensure optimal diagnostic images are referred for radiologists' interpretation before transmitting the image to Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). Work Schedule: 9pm - 7:30am NIGHT shift, Wednesday through Saturday.

Subject to on-call rotations and Federal Holidays Compressed/Flexible: Compressed Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 55457F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact [email protected], an available EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized