This position is assigned to the Nursing Service (ICU) at Jesse Brown VA Medical Center located in Chicago, Illinois; a level 1b VHA Facility. The primary purpose of the position is to provide a varied range of supportive and direct care duties at the ward level in support of patient activities. To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. GS-06 grade level: One year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-05 grade level in the federal service); experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities (KSA's) and other characteristics to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled, in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Specialized experience includes: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GS-6: Must possess at least (1) one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-5) that required the application of the knowledge, skills, and abilities of this position. Specialized experience includes, but is not limited to: Knowledge of current/common word-processing software systems, (including e-mail), the Medical Center computerized patient records system and basic data base management to function within the scope of service and support the office as required. The skills of a qualified typist are required. Knowledge of equipment, diagnostic and treatment procedures commonly used in the Nursing Service. Skills to apply such knowledge to perform a variety of procedures that includes collecting, labelling, and recording for proper analysis. Knowledge of normal and abnormal situations to recognize and report abnormalities. Knowledge of sterilization methods to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Skill and Knowledge to provide competent educational instructions to patient on personal hygiene, proper self-aftercare; provides emotional support and understanding. Knowledge of the performance of 12 lead ECGs along with skills in operating, maintaining, and performing quality checks of fingerstick glucose instruments, and ECG machines. Knowledge of infection control, aseptic and sterile technique to prevent cross contamination and spread of infection. Knowledge of a body of standardized procedures sufficient to perform routine support activities and direct care activities at the ward level. This will require a given amount of training and experience. Knowledge and skills sufficient to observe patients physical and emotional state of being, to be award of when it is necessary to call for assistance. Knowledge and skills to maintain and store medical supply items and/or equipment. Knowledge and skill sufficient to serve as a basic contact with psychiatric patients with sufficient interpersonal skill to reassure patients. Knowledge and skill sufficient to observe and report on simple reactions and changes to the Registered Nurse. There is no educational substitution for the GS-XX level. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. ["The incumbent performs a wide range of direct and indirect patient care activities and related supportive services to assist in providing total patient care. The incumbent is under the general guidance and direction of a Registered Nurse. This position level encompasses the responsibility for having the knowledge and ability to perform tasks that are supportive of patient activities including, lifting, transporting, escorting and assisting in making the patient care environment organized and efficient. Also included is the ability to perform diagnostic support duties, such as vital signs, I/O, and finger stick glucose testing. This role requires the individual to demonstrate excellent observation, perception, and judgement skills. He/She must show initiative and pay meticulous attention to detail. Incumbents will perform a wide range of support to patient care through transporting of patients to diagnostic examinations. At times this will require that the employee remain with the patient. Incumbent will possess the interpersonal skills to be able to communicate effectively and courteously with patients and staff. Also necessary is basic knowledge of all safety principles required to transport patients and to maintain a safe patient care environment. Work Schedule: Full-time, Monday - Friday, 3:30pm-12:00am, 11:30pm-8:00am, weekends and Holidays. Position Description Title/PD#: Health Technician/ 23007A Physical Requirements: The work involves long periods of standing as well as considerable amounts of walking, bending, stooping, stretching, lifting (not to exceed 20 lbs.). Moving of patients using Safe Patient Handling Equipment. Work Environment: The work environment involves everyday risks or discomfort and requires normal safety precautions typical of a Medical Facility setting."]
About Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration
Providing Health Care for Veterans: The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,255 health care facilities, including 170 medical centers and 1,074 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.