Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - MRI

Summary Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (ADRT) – Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) assigned to the Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center (RMRVAMC) – Imaging Service; MRI Section within the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System (ECHCS) in Aurora, Colorado. RMRVAMC is a complex Level 1A1 Medical Center that provides a full range of state‑of‑the‑art patient care services, including a 182‑bed hospital with a 30‑bed spinal cord injury and disorders service. 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. United States Citizenship: Non‑citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. 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. Technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on‑the‑job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist. Loss of Credential: An employee who fails to obtain certification within two years or who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment. For grade levels above the entry level, the candidate must be certified. Completion of a full‑time training course of at least 24 months 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 equivalent. Grandfathering may apply to current VHA employees who meet the criteria. Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level – directly related to the position – that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Technical KSAs: Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while performing complex scans, knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record and health care providers, ability to assess contraindications, basic first aid, basic life support, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods, and universal precautions. Physical requirements: Bending, carrying moderately heavy articles, pushing and pulling, assisting patients to achieve proper positioning, reaching above shoulder height, using fingers with good dexterity, prolonged walking and standing, repeated bending, rapid mental and muscular coordination, vision correctable to 20/20 in one eye, basic color differentiation, speed in working, and emotional stability. English language proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) – and 7407(d). Duties Operate a wide variety of imaging equipment in MRI to obtain examinations of acceptable quality while limiting the specific absorption rate (SAR) for diagnosis and localization purposes. Perform MRI of the spine, head, neck, abdomen, pelvis, extremities, breast, and cardiac studies (onsite training for specialized exams). Perform MRI of the peripheral and visceral vessels through MR angiography of the abdominal systems and extremities to include renal, hepatic, mesenteric, aortic, femoral, or other studies according to current protocols. Perform venipuncture and adhere to guidance regarding administration of contrast media – use of power injectors and gadolinium. Process studies through post‑processing software and the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). Maintain electronic records of exams performed on patients. Appropriately process orders through all imaging scheduling software and document. Prepare contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist. Respond to patient reactions that may require immediate attention to prevent harm to the patient. Follow MRI safety guidance – report and document safety issues and incidents in the electronic health record, patient safety reporting tool, and to the supervisor immediately upon occurrence. Adhere to all service, section, and national policies and directives. Review and interpret all radiology study orders for accuracy and appropriateness; review orders, protocols, and screening information for accuracy, note and research any questionable information prior to approval and performance of the exam. Complete imaging studies within the established guidelines for stat, pre‑op, urgent, and routine exams. Coordinate examinations that require radiologist direction around physician availability – maximizing exam room effectiveness. Optimize scan times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. Adhere to hospital infection control and safety policies. Maintain adequate supplies and pharmaceuticals used in the department; inventory and restock all supplies and monitor expiration dates. Notify the supervisor and supply chain management of supply issues. Determine technical factors to produce optimal MRI studies. Appropriately vary exams or treatment procedures as needed to compensate for patients' individual medical conditions and body habitus. Consult with radiologists to determine the requirement of non‑standard exams and document in the electronic health record. Notify the radiologist when procedures require their immediate attention. Properly identify patients by using full name, date of birth, full social security number, and/or hospital name band. Verify correct MRI scan, correct amount and type of contrast administered, timelines for any timed examinations, patient position, and other identifying markers. Properly identify areas of interest on all images when applicable. Perform minor equipment adjustments, repairs, and exercises care in the handling and safeguarding of all equipment. Check equipment for proper function prior to performing procedures. Report equipment malfunction to the supervisor immediately after troubleshooting and enter an electronic repair request. Participate in quality assurance activities as directed. Complete all annual and/or new competencies and required trainings. Participate in the after‑hours call rotation. Perform all other related imaging duties as directed. Benefits and Compensation Competitive salary with regular increases; higher step rate may be determined for additional qualifications. Paid time off: 37‑50 days of annual paid time, including 13‑26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays per year. Parental leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with birth, adoption, or foster care placement. Child care subsidy: After 60 days of employment, eligible employees may receive up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for children up to the monthly maximum. Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401(k) with up to 5% VA contributions. Veterans health, vision, dental, term life, and long‑term care insurance – many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement. Telework: Not authorized; virtual work is not possible. Functional Statement #: 52095‑A. #J-18808-Ljbffr U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs