The position is located in the Medical Imaging Department within the Radiology Service at the North Chicago VA. This DRT position performs computerized tomography of the head, neck spine, chest and body and any other exams as per department guidelines. These exams are performed with and without the use of contrast materials. Works under the supervision of the Imaging Section Supervisor. 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. To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement 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. English Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). 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). aspects of interest to the physician. DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification. 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 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. GS-09 GRADE REQUIREMENTS: 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. DRT's 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. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following 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. References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G27 Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. ["Major duties included but not limited to: Confers with radiologists to determine requirement of non-standard exams. Assists radiologist in the performance of CT guided biopsy/drainage exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques. Works with the radiologist as a member of the surgical/radiographic team. Prepares and administers contrast materials that are used in CT exams, such as oral, rectal and IV. Responsible for explaining exams to competent patients in terms the patient will comprehend as well as understanding potential hazards that may occur as a result of the exam. Perform CT exams using multiple techniques including, but not limited to, single phase post-contrast exams, multi-phase post-contrast exams, and low-dose exams. 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. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. Ensures that images are successfully transmitted to P ACS and are available for Radiologic interpretation. Properly identifies patient images. Responsible for cleanliness (to assure that all equipment used in the CT area is clean and sanitary) and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas. Must immediately report equipment malfunction in a timely manner to the supervisor. Responsible for stocking and inventory of all CT/X-Ray supplies and related materials. Performs irregular hour emergency scans on call, 24hours per day, coverage. Requires the technologist be available within 30 minutes from receipt of call so that proper and effective emergency care can be given to the patient. May be required to perform diagnostic radiographic examinations. Reviews new developments in the field of computerized tomography. Ensure productivity is maintained at the established level for the program for which he/she is responsible. Perform CT, and General Radiology, examinations following the protocols and procedures for Jesse Brown VA Radiology Service. Responsible for assuming various rotating schedules as determined by the Operations Manager, Radiology Service. Schedules exams in a manner so as to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. Work Schedule: Full-time, Monday - Friday - Midnight to 8:00am Compressed/Flexible: Per supervisor Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
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.
