The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist performs technical work in support of diagnostic radiology under the direction of a physician and/or supervisory diagnostic radiologic technologist. Operates radiology equipment both mobile and fixed units. Utilizes C Arm for OR procedures. Performs picture archival duties, captures, configures, verifies images before transfer to PACS system. Experience in PACS software is required. Performs QA/QM procedures for DR Systems desirable. 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. 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).] NOTE: Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description.]. 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. 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 employment. Physical Requirements. In addition to the below, please see VA Directive and Handbook 5019. English Language Proficiency. Must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). Creditable Experience (1) Knowledge of Current Radiologic Technology Practice. To be creditable, experience must have demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics (also referred to as clinical competencies) associated with current radiologic technology practice. This may have been evidenced by the equivalent of one year of active practice, which is paid or nonpaid employment as a DRT as defined by ARRT. (2) Quality of Experience. Experience is only creditable if it was earned after completion of the basic certification requirements identified in paragraph 2b above. Experience as a graduate DRT is creditable provided the candidate functioned as a DRT and subsequently passed the certification examination. (3) Part-Time Experience. Part-time experience as a DRT is creditable according to its relationship to the full-time workweek. For example, a DRT would receive one week of full- time credit for each two weeks of half-time work. Grade Determinations: GS-8(1) Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-7*) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. *Examples of assignments and knowledge, skills and abilities (KSA's) at the GS-07 grade level include but are not limited to: Assignment: Perform a full range of duties but receive guidance and directions regarding unfamiliar or unusual situations for more complex patient issues. Candidates at this grade level may be qualified to provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services. KSA's: Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system; Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study; Knowledge of radiation protection standards, minimum radiographic exposure techniques, appropriate beam limitation to anatomical area, and employing lead shielding when performing standard radiographic and fluoroscopic procedures; Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems; Knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills (2) Assignments. Employees at this grade level serve as staff DRTs at the full performance level. Candidates at this grade level must be qualified to independently provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services with only occasional oversight or direction for highly complex issues. (3) Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: (a) Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. (b) Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. (c) Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. (d) Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. (e) Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. (f) Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8.The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. Physical Requirements: Performs imaging studies while standing and will be required to make trips to the patient waiting room in order to call patients in. There may be some standing, bending, and carrying of light items such as carrying paperwork, utilizing the mobile x-ray machine, and utilized the C arm in the operating room. This requires repositioning of the camera during an OR procedure or during a portable x-ray completed. ["Major duties/functions include, but are not limited to: Receives requests or instructions for procedures. Interprets requests or instructions from radiologist or medical officers. Performs as technologist in charge on less demanding shifts or in a detached clinic. Receives assignments for a variety of difficult examinations. Independently interprets and carries out the requests made by physicians. Serves as staff DRT's at the full performance level. Candidates at this grade level or to be qualified to provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services. Administers contrast materials orally, by enema, or in some circumstances, intravenously under close supervision by the Radiologist. Determines technical factors, sets controls and operates equipment. CR & digital QC duties and maintains standards suggested by the manufacturer, and maintain supplies. Independently makes routine radiographic examinations of head, body, and extremities for diagnosis of illness or injuries. Operates digital radiology, Determines the technical factors set controls and operates equipment ensuring that the portion of the body specified receives the correct calculated exposure. Sets up and adjusts accessory equipment required and makes exposures necessary for requested procedures. Ensures ALARA principle is applied. Shields all patients when possible. As a team member with a radiologist, performs procedures such as urethrograms, GI services, myelograms, pain management procedures, modified barium swallow, and barium and air contrast barium enemas. Sets up the x-ray room. Schedules patients for examination. Register patients for examinations and updates status when necessary. Maintains electronic logs of patients and procedures used. Reviews new developments in the field and recommends to the head of the unit adoption of those which improve the operations of the radiology section. Performs digital and QC and maintains standards suggested by the manufacturer. Cleans and sterilizes equipment and area after use. Performs routine maintenance and recognizes and reports malfunctioning equipment to ensure repair. Is required to remain certified with their registry and be current in continuing education requirements. Incumbent reviews textbooks, medical and technical journals, and attends continuing education seminars. As an affiliate of a radiology program, technologist may be required to participate in clinical training of new students and radiological technologies. Incumbent will also maintain current BLS certification. Transfer patient from stretcher or wheelchair to radiographic table. Prepare room, equipment and material needed for patient procedures. Follow prescribed protocols required to perform procedures. Observe patients during procedures and reports complications or unusual events. Transfers and verifies images to PACS for interpretation and ensures exams are complete and ready for interpretation. Perform computer work and required forms associated with patient exams, credit of patient visits, complications and/or quality improvement activities of the Radiology Department. Maximize patient throughput by contacts with ward secretaries, unit clerks, nursing personnel, etc. Provide orientation and training employees within his/her section. Provide guidance to employees in the general radiology section. Coordinate quality improvement activities within the general radiology section. Recommends areas for review or improvement. Practice hospital safety, radiation safety, infection control and universal precautions at all times within age and/or gender specific department guidelines."]

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