Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

The Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist CT operates highly complex computerized imaging equipment to acquire diagnostic
images used in the diagnosis and treatment of patient medical disorders. He/she is an expert in performing CT examinations, which includes 3D image reconstruction, in multiple planes, including axial, coronal, sagittal planes and dynamic blood flow studies. The incumbent works independently but reports to the Lead Technologist, in the imaging section or Supervisor.

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:

• 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). 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).

Grade Determinations for GS-09: For assignments above full performance lever, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity, and range of variety; these duties must 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. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities at this level.

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:
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, and volunteers
f. Knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy; recognize unusual images and determine proper positioning to best determine areas of interest.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience listed above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
a. Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures;
b. Skill to demonstrate appropriate techniques to gather relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers;
c. Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure;
d. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography;
e. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions; and
f. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients.

Preferred Experience: Computed Tomography experience of at least 1 year. Must be ARRT (R) (CT) registered.

References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard.

Physical Requirements: Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
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 long periods of time.

Responsibilities:

***This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until December 29, 2023. The initial cut-off date for referral of eligible applications will be 11/07/23. Eligible applications received after that date will be referred at regular intervals or as additional vacancies occur on an as-needed basis OR until positions are filled. ***

Receives and interprets requests or instructions for procedures from radiologist or medical officers for accuracy and appropriateness.
- The CT Technologist independently reviews each requisition to assure that the clinical history provided, and area of interest is
consistent with the exam requested. If a discrepancy exists, the technologist will take the appropriate corrective action.
- Independently carries out the requests made by physicians; the technologist determines which scanning protocol and sequences
will be scanned based on the patient's clinical history and diagnosis.
- Properly verifies the patient's identity using two unique identifiers and using active rather than passive identification; follows VHA policies.
- Positions the patient for desired results; utilizing positioning cushions, pads and straps as needed.
- Ensure the patient screening process has been performed, screening for contrast media allergies, and contraindicated medical devices.
- Obtain pertinent clinical data from the patient, electronic health record, requisition, and interviewing the patient
and/or family.
Uses professional judgement and possess the ability to manipulate and change prescribed protocols and technical factors
according to patient necessity, pathology or triage.
- Ability to identify pathology during scanning; advising the Radiologist of a change in protocol in order to obtain better pathology
visualization.
- Ability to reformat CT images as directed by the Radiologist or when part of a standard procedure. Maintains proficiency on
reformatting and post processing techniques.
- Technologist is expected to troubleshoot equipment for error or malfunction.
- Reviews patient's clinical history, diagnosis, and laboratory results via the electronic health record prior to performing the CT
exam to ensure no contraindications exist to receiving the contrast media.
- Prepares and administers contrast media, under the direction of the radiologist. Follows prescribing protocols according to
requested exam, contrast type, body weight, pathology and according to policy.
- Follows Infection Control policies during IV insertions, maintains competencies in obtaining IV access and contrast
administration.
- Ability to observe patient's and monitor physiologic changes during the procedure and report complications and
unusual events to the radiologist.
- Appropriate documentation for the clearance to proceed with the CT exam with radiologist signature is required to be entered
into the electronic health record prior to performing the exam. In some cases, the exam will not be performed, and the order will
be canceled. Documentation of the contraindicated reason must be entered into the EHR.
- Perform computer work and required forms associated with patient exams, credit of patient visits, complications and/or
quality improvement activities of the department.
- Assist in maintaining inventory of supplies, monitoring expiration dates to ensure all items are within compliance and
Demonstrates the ability to perform critical clinical tasks and routine quality assurance tasks without assistance.


Work Schedule: Variable Tours of Duty
Telework: Not Authorized
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 50312-A
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required