Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Fargo, ND, United States - Veterans Health Administration

Description

Summary

The Fargo VA Health Care System is recruiting for an intermittent (as needed) Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist for the Diagnostic Imaging Service Line.

Salary noted is based on a full-time schedule. Actual salary will be pro-rated based on hours worked. The hourly rate ranges from $27.75 to $36.08.

Qualifications

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)
• 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:
GS-8 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Experience

• At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level, which is defined as: Working knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system; working knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study; working 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; working knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems; working knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills
• AND Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: -Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines
• -Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed -Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results
• -Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed
• -Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers
• -Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest
• All qualifying experience you possess must be clearly described in your application package
• We will not make assumptions when reviewing applications
• Failure to demonstrate your experience in your resume may result in disqualification
• It is strongly recommended that you write to each KSA in your application package
• 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

Preferred:
Computed Tomography (CT) certification


References:
A Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8

• The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-8

Physical Requirements:
You will be asked to participate in a pre-employment examination or evaluation as part of the pre-employment process for this position

• Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.

Duties

"The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers.

This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest.

As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran.

This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community.

This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.

This Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) position is assigned to the Fargo VA Health Care System Imaging Service department.
FHCS is a level two complexity level, providing research, servicing ten CBOC's, emergency department and in-patient facility.
Performs 100% of general x-ray/ Fluoroscopy.
May work in advanced modality such at CT if certified by ARRT.
May also work in DEXA if trained.
Duties include, but are not limited to: a.

Technologist meets the requirements set forth in Fargo VA Health Care System policy for BLS; BLS Certification is maintained on a bi-annual basis and always complies.

b.

Accurately operates a wide variety of imaging equipment to obtain examinations of acceptable quality, utilizing the least amount of radiation to obtain quality imaging for diagnosis and localization purposes.

c.

Technologist works under the supervision of the Section Supervisor and/or Lead Technologist and rotates all responsibilities within the CT section.

He/she works independently on most exams but confers with Radiologists and Section Supervisor and/or Lead Technologist on more difficult problems.

Work is spot-checked for achievement of objectives.
d.

Knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and physiology including location, appearance, and functioning of the major and minor systems susceptible to radiographic illumination, and knowledge of changes to systems and organs caused by common medical and surgical diseases.

e.

May performs all aspects of CT imaging to include: Head, Sinus, Maxofacial, Orbits, Temporal bones, TMJ, Neck, CT enterography, CT urography, Chest, Abdomen, Pelvis Extremities, soft tissue, and Multi-Planar Reformats CT and Angiographic studies when requested and/or when part of a standard procedure.

Performs CT Angiography:

Performs CT Angiography of the Circle of Willis, Cerebral venous thrombosis, Carotids, Chest, Brachial plexus, Abdominal Aortas, Run-Off's, Renal arteries, Mesenteric Arteries, CT Cardiac Imaging, Cardiac scoring and CT Myelography utilizing specialized series to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis.

The radiographic goal of CT is to provide high quality axial imaging; generate the best possible images at the minimal radiation dose necessary to the patient.

f.
Performs fluoroscopy in surgery environment.
These procedures are performed in the operating room under aseptic techniques.
The purpose of these exams is to provide diagnostic services in supporting the surgery team.
g.
Performs complex diagnostic and portable radiographic examinations within the facility for in- patients and the emergency department.
These complex exams include x-rays for location of foreign bodies, trauma radiography, stroke protocol, and heart ischemia protocol.
This includes inter articular joint injections, and complex orthopedic surgery cases, vascular surgery cases.
h.
Incumbent will work with the radiologist/physician as a member of the team.
Must assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologist/physician and the performance of the exam.
They must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition and sterile field.
i.
He/she works independently on most exams but confers with Radiologists and Section Supervisor/Lead Technologist on more difficult problems.
Work is spot-checked for achievement of objectives.
j.
Technologist is required to maintain competence in Venipuncture if working in CT .

Is required to adhere the Radiology Service procedure guidelines on protocols of contrast administration, Administration of Contrast Media After-Hours, Guidelines for Power Injection of Contrast Media in PICC lines, central lines, and power ports.

CT SOP on administration of contrast and facility circular MM 06 administration for use of Contrast Media.

Work Schedule:
Intermittent (as needed)

Telework:
Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not authorized PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO): Not authorized

Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required" #J-18808-Ljbffr