The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) - Computed Tomography (CT) position is assigned to the C.W. Bill Young, Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, Diagnostic Imaging Service. Technicians at this level are fully functional as a DRT and expected to carry out the assigned tasks independently. The team member will have a varying assignment including special and complex Computed Tomography examinations, and procedures within the Computed Tomography section. 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. Loss of Credential: An employee in this occupation who fails to obtain certification within two years, or who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of of employment. 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), and7407(d). Grade Determinations: For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. 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. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-9 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-08), directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. KSAs at the GS-08 level are: Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities: In addition to the above, 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. 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- CT assignments in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification. References: VA Handbook 5005/119 Part II, Appendix G25 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-09. Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work include: 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. Work is performed in a health care setting. Work may involve exposure to infection and possible contagious diseases. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019 for additional details. ["The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT), Computed Tomography Technologist, employee at this level is fully functional as a DRT and can carry out the assigned tasks independently. The team member will have a varying assignment including special and complex Computed Tomography, examinations, and procedures within the Computed Tomography section, with and without the use of contrast materials, 100% of the time. Duties of the DRT-CT Technologist include, but not limited to the following: Incumbent will work with the radiologist/physician as a member of the surgical /CT team. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologist/physician and the performance of the exam. They must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition and sterile field. Accurately operate a wide variety of imaging equipment to obtain examinations of acceptable quality, utilizing the least amount of radiation to obtain quality imaging for diagnosis and localization purposes. Performs all aspects of CT imaging to include 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 Interventional CT exams including biopsies, RF ablations, abscess drainages, cyst aspiration, utilizing surgical sterile techniques. This requires proper preparation of sterile trays, proper labeling of medications dispensed to sterile trays, knowledge of supplies and specific locations, and assuring measures have been taken to prevent contamination of the patient and equipment. Technologist is required to maintain competence in Venipuncture and refer to the Imaging Service procedure manual for guidelines on Administration of Contrast Media. Prepare contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist that are used in CT, to include CT Angiography and other exams. Technologist must be continuously on the alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Technologist must be familiar with policies and procedures for practicing radiation safety to reduce exposure to patients, staff, and self. This is achieved by optimizing technical factors and ensuring all policies and procedure are adhered to. Technologist acquires and maintains knowledge in CT dose optimization and the factors that directly affect radiation dose from the CT scanner to the patient. They must be familiar with the CT dose Optimization committee; know the committee members and its purpose within the Radiology Service. The employee must be aware of and practice the safety policies and procedures of the Medical Center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed. Technologist reviews all radiology requests for accuracy and appropriateness. Inputs pertinent information into the designated computer systems and has knowledge to register, complete, cancel and edit exam. Performs and completes imaging studies within the established guidelines for stat, pre-op, urgent and routine exams. Technologist works with CT schedule to assure timely accomplishment of assigned workload. Optimizes scan times while maintaining flexibility for emergent cases. Adheres to hospital infection control and safety policies/techniques with emphasis on sterile technique; the storage of sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids and 'sharps'; proper attire; hand washing practices; and continuing education. Maintains adequate supplies and pharmaceuticals used in the department. Responsible for stocking and inventory of all supplies, notifying supervisor when supplies are not available and monitoring expiration dates to ensure all items are within compliance. 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. When necessary, confers with Radiologists to determine requirement of non-standard exams. Maintains electronic records and files of exams performed on patients. This includes the maintenance of electronically secured spreadsheets, registration and editing of patient exams in the computerized information system and ensuring all images and required paperwork is properly filled out and scanned in to the PACS system, in the correct orientation and on the correct patient. Work Schedule: There are two available work schedules. Work schedules will be discussed during the interview process. Monday through Friday from 2:30p to 11:00p, with rotating holidays. Monday through Friday from 3:30p to midnight, with rotating holidays. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized to highly qualified candidates. Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

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