Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Martinez, United States - Veterans Health Administration

Description

Job Description

Summary

Operates independently and without direct supervision as the technologist responsible for the performance and coordination of diagnostic radiology examinations and procedures for the Radiology Department.

The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies so that proper diagnosis and treatment may be effectuated.

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


English Language Proficiency:
Medical Instrument Technicians must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G27


Certification:
Must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R)

• Additionally, advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), which is included in this announcement

Education:
Must have completed a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic 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)

• 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-08: At the GS-08 level, you must have at least 1 year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-07) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
• Experience at the GS-07 level would include but not be limited to: Experience assisting with special procedures such as drainages and biopsies, routine diagnostic radiography, portable radiography, fluoroscopy, operating room imaging, and cross-sectional human anatomy and its application in computed tomography including post-processing applications
• AND In addition, you must demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities (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

Preferred Experience:
Minimum of 2-yrs experience as a Rad Tech (RT)

• Certified by CDPH (CRT - R/F)
• current BLS (AHA) required

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

• The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08

Physical Requirements:

Position requires Lifting (Assist Patients from lying position to sitting (and vice versa) with varying degrees of assistance, working with 200+ lbs.)/Carrying (45lbs and over); Sitting/Standing/Walking/Kneeling/Bending/Twisting/Pulling/Pushing/Simple Grasping/Fine Manipulation (Keyboard and Computer Components)/Reaching Above Shoulder/Operating Machinery (US Equipment)/Chemicals (Hospital-Based Solvents) 2-6 hours each requirement per day.

Duties "Performs a variety of difficult radiographic examinations with the Diagnostic Imaging Department.

Performs independently or as a member of the Diagnostic Imaging team to create quality images through the use of sophisticated computerized diagnostic radiology equipment.

Independently performs routine radiographic examination of head, trunk and extremities for diagnosis of illnesses or injuries.

Performs radiographic exams at the bedside and in the operating rooms providing diagnostic x-rays to the surgeons and professional staff on patients that are unable to be x-rayed in the Radiology Service due to incapacity or surgical procedures.

The using three portable x-ray Units and a mobile intensifier unit that is in Surgery achieve these exams.
Oversees the scheduling of exams to assure patients will be seen in a timely manner.
Documents exams performed.
Prepares paperwork complete with prior reports to be presented with patient's folder to the radiology reading room.
Operates highly technical Computerized radiographic equipment.
Can troubleshoot when computers indicate equipment errors.
Alters images prior to being digitally sent to reading stations for optimum visualization.
Retrieves and sends images via the STENTOR PACS system.
Compiles studies by accessing images through the computer archives.

Maintains effective control of Radiology area by coordinating, planning, organizing, and executing the work potential to expedite workflow patterns within the departments.

Schedules patient for exams and maintains daily log of patients and procedures to be incorporated into statistical management workload profile.

Responsible for creating, implementing, collecting, critiquing, and preparing all written and oral reports of up-to-date data necessary for the completion of continuous and/or problem-focus Quality Assurance monitors representing the Radiology departments utilizing the 10-step Monitor & Evaluation method as required by JCAHO.

Keeps abreast of technological advances in the fields of Radiology and incorporates these advances in the fields of Radiology and Cardiology and incorporates these advances into in-service educational programs for the nursing and physician staff.

Provides training and in-service programs to aid in the instruction of nurses and physicians on procedures, operation and/or maintenance of new and existing medical equipment.

Establishes written procedures and protocol for use with new medical equipment.

Liaison for complaints and requests from patients, physicians and other personnel concerning activities between the VAMC and Radiology department such as: appointment schedules, examinations, policies and procedures.

Works closely with the radiology staff at the VA Medical Center in coordinating and integrating all activities.
Troubleshoots equipment used in diagnostic radiologic procedures and can make minor repairs and/or adjustments.
Exercises extreme caution in the handling and safeguarding of all radiation producing equipment.
Must recognize and report major equipment malfunctions within a timely manner to service representative.
Receives and interprets all radiology requests.
Inputs pertinent radiology information into computer.
Registers, requests, cancels, and edits exams via the computer radiology information system (RIS).
Compiles computer generated x-ray reports and distributes to appropriate clinics and physicians.
Practices radiation safety to reduce exposure to patients, staff and self.

This is achieved by the appropriate use of lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls, collimation, and distance management.

Film badges are worn by the radiographer to assure compliance to radiation regulations and guidelines of the state.
Coordinates all activities of Radiology department with Sacramento Radiology department to provide maximum patient care.

Work Schedule:
Mon-

Fri Telework:

Not Available Virtual:
This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #:
F Relocation/

Recruitment Incentives:
Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS):

Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required"