Nuclear Medicine Technologist

The Multimodality Nuclear Medicine Technologist at VA Medical Center performs a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic Nuclear Medicine procedures, including Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), and Computed Tomography (CT) imaging, specifically in Cardiac Imaging. 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 nuclear medicine technology by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (N). NMTCB or ARRT (N) certification eligibility requirements are normally satisfied by one of the following: Completion of a NMTCB-recognized nuclear medicine technology program. OR Completion of a nuclear medicine technology program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT), or other accrediting agencies as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE), culminating in a certificate, associate, baccalaureate, or master's degree. Educational programs must have structured clinical training sufficient to provide clinical competency in radiation safety, instrumentation, clinical procedures, and radio-pharmacy, as deemed acceptable by the NMTCB. Grade Determinations 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled, and must fully meet the KSAs at that level. Examples of experience is (i.e., experience that demonstrates possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics needed to provide nuclear medicine technology services at that level) is required. Assignments For all assignments above the journey level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. NMTs at this level are fully functional as an advanced NMT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. NMTs in this assignment perform fusion imaging such as PET/CT, SPECT/CT and/or PET/MR procedures that include diagnostic nuclear medicine, CT, and/or MR fused images. Multi-modality technologists must hold appropriate specific certifications in nuclear medicine (NMTCB or ARRT(N)), as well as CT (NMTCB(CT)) or ARRT (CT), and/or MR (ARRT (MR)) applicable to independently perform the assignment duties. They carry out these complex assignments independently as part of nuclear medicine procedures. Assignments may include injection of contrast and recognition of allergic reactions, contraindications, and medication interactions. GS-11 Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of contrast media, side effects, medication allergic reactions, drug interactions, and extravasation assessment. Skill to differentiate multi-modality protocols and adjust protocols according to patient needs, body mass index, or area of interest. Knowledge of unique scanning and processing parameters required of multi- modality imaging. Ability to troubleshoot and make simple repairs to PET/CT and/or PET/MR imaging systems. Ability to care for patients during all stages of the procedure and provide emergency response care when necessary. Knowledge of all contraindications for performing CT and/or MR scans. Preferred Experience Experience with nuclear medicine isotopes, and with cardiac stress testing /imaging preferred. Physical Requirements The work requires regular and recurring physical exertion such as standing and walking for extended periods (4–6 hours per shift). Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects up to 45 pounds (e.g., radiopharmaceutical doses, lead shielding, portable equipment). Reaching, bending, and positioning patients, some of whom may be unconscious, disabled, or require assistance with mobility. Wearing protective lead aprons and radiation badges as required. Visual acuity, keen hearing, clear speech, and manual dexterity are essential. Incumbent must have the ability to distinguish basic colors, shades, and fine details on imaging studies. #J-18808-Ljbffr