This Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT), Computed Tomography (CT), position is assigned to the Pacific Island Health Care System (VAPIHCS), Radiology Service; Computed Tomography section within the Spark Matsunaga VA Medical Center a Level 2 complexity facility comprised of Ambulatory Care Center, Center for Aging, and six CBOCs across 5 islands. It houses a Research and Development Department and Radiology Service is actively engaged in Research with the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. Qualifications: 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: Citizenship. Be a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g.) 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). English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations: 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. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist. 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. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): i. *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. ii. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. iii. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. iv. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. v. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. vi. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Preferred Experience: ARRT certification with a minimum of two year's experience in General Radiology Digital Imaging with a certification for Computed Tomography (CT). References: As outlined in the VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G-25 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work includes: 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. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. ["This specialty modality requires specific knowledgeable 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 Advanced DRT 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 particular interest to the physician. Provides support to physicians or other medical professionals in using diagnostic instruments, equipment and accessories. Equipment includes radiography unit (fixed and portable), and power injectors. Prior to conducting the examination the Advanced DRT will provide patient education to promote the patient's comfort and gain increased cooperation, confirm patient orders, review history, enter basic imaging protocols, download patient demographics and ensure the image recording devices and network connections are viable. During the examination the technologist will adjust imaging parameters to maximize image quality and to accommodate for the patient's body habitus and pre-existing pathology. Notifies the Supervisory DRT, radiologist, or appropriate health care professional of any situation in which prompt or immediate medical or surgical attention or intervention may be required. The Advanced DRT will be involved with scheduling patients for CT procedures coordinating the exams in a manner to optimize procedure times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. To prioritize patient examinations the Advanced DRT must evaluate the clinical history and examination indications as submitted by referring physician. The Advanced DRT monitors patient's condition and vital signs; takes immediate action when patient's condition indicates undue stress, trauma or other adverse symptoms indicating onset of complications. Routinely cleans and inspects equipment to insure proper mechanical and electrical operation and promptly enters work orders to biomedical engineering as well as reports these deficiencies to the Supervisory DRT. The Advanced DRT performs medical procedures such as starting and removing intravenous (IV) catheters as well as removing and applying dressings when necessary. Works with other staff in the department and the facility to promote an atmosphere of teamwork and responsibility with patients and fellow staff. Work Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday, 7:30am - 4:00pm (or as needed by the Department) Telework: Not Authorized Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
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