Summary The incumbent performs both CT and MRI exams as a Dual Specialty Modality Technologist on a routine daily basis (50% each). This individual must be expert in performing both modalities and be able to prioritize the urgency of their work to maintain optimum patient care in both areas. Responsibilities Major duties include, but are not limited to: Computerized Tomography (CT) Examinations (50%): The incumbent works independently in performing CT examinations, confers with radiologists only to establish the requirements of nonstandard examinations, and determines technical requirements of the CT examination. The Technologist independently reviews each requisition to assure that the patient history and area of complaint is consistent with the exam requested. If a discrepancy exists, the Technologist will make an independent determination and take the appropriate corrective action. The Technologist verifies the patient's identity following VHA directives and policies. The Technologist will determine what views and technique to use based on this information for maximum diagnostic effectiveness. If the diagnostic goal is not met initially, the Technologist will make an independent decision to take addition views or alter the technique to achieve the goal, keeping in mind the ALARA principles, before the patient leaves the department. The Technologist reviews the patient's lab results in VISTA/ CPRS prior to performing the exam to verify that the patient can safely receive IV contrast. If the Technologist determines that the patient is at risk for an allergic reaction, or if the patient's renal function is impaired, the Technologist will closely consult with the Radiologist and/or Clinician to determine the best course of action. The Technologist must use a wide variety of computerized equipment specific to CT, as well as be proficient with the use of power injector systems, patient monitoring devices, colon insufflators, 3D workstations and the PACS, IMP AX computer viewing station software. The Technologist maintains the CT area with proper medical and Emergency supplies needed for optimal patient care, safety and efficiency. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Examinations (50%): The MRI Technologist is responsible for the safety of the patient entering the magnet room (Zone IV), and for the safety of the personnel, visitors and ancillary staff in the MRI area (Zones III and IV). The Technologist independently reviews each requisition to assure that the patient history and area of complaint is consistent with the exam requested. In addition, the MRI Technologist will determine which protocol and sequences will be scanned based on the patient's clinical history and diagnosis. The MRI Technologist must continually monitor the patient, and have regular communication with them to reassure them, and to keep them informed of the progress of the exam and provide them with any special instructions. The Technologist must continually check each sequence after completion for patient motion, field of view, and for the desired clinical information. The Technologist reviews the exam as it is being performed, and again prior to completion to be sure the clinical goals have been achieved. The MRI technologist performs daily pre-procedure quality control on the scanner. The Technologist interprets this information to determine if the scanner Work Schedule: 4pm- Midnight/ Monday-Friday Telework: Not Available Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required Requirements Conditions of Employment You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. You may be required to serve a probationary period. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Must pass pre-employment physical examination. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Qualifications BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Citizenship: Citizen of the United States. 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. 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). Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements above, candidates must meet the following grade requirements. GS-10 Diagnostics Radiologic Technologist (Advanced) 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. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: 1. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes. 2. Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures, and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures. 3. Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment. 4. Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies. Assignment. Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures. At this grade level, any assignment in a single modality must demonstrate significant complexity. Such assignments are unique, perhaps with expert specialization in complex areas of radiologic technology, Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations, and intermediate QM @type duties within the program. References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25 - Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standards. Education Transcript to validate 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). Additional Information Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. VA may offer newly-appointed Federal employee's credit for their job-related non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment. This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status. VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority. Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members. If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.
