Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Job TitleRadiologic TechnologistDutiesSchedules exams in a manner to optimize all the radiographic equipment including the MRI scanner times while maintaining flexibility to allow for emergency cases. This requires prioritization of scheduled patients as well as the ability to accommodate the extreme emergency patient who may need immediate emergency surgery, etc. Confers with radiologists to determine requirements of non-standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of MRI scanning. Schedules patients for examinations. Advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results. Notifies them of scans requiring their immediate attention. Works with the radiologist as a member of the radiographic team. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologists and the performance of the exam. Must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition (the alertness of the individual is essential to prevent contamination, recognize patient reactions, anticipate technique factor difficulties, etc.) Prepares contrast materials that are used in MRI and general exams. Improper use or administration of the contrast materials run the risk of patient mortality and, therefore, it is essential that a thorough understanding of the contrast material usage is possessed by those who prepare it. In addition, must be continuously on the alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Reactions on the part of the patient require immediate attention so that harm does not come to the patient. Is certified to insert IV needles for administration of contrast material when necessary. Practices MRI safety to reduce exposure to patients, staff and self. The incumbent must be aware of and practice the safety policies and procedures of the healthcare system and participate in quality assurance activities as directed. Uses the PACs system for retrieval of images to be printed to a laser camera. Also, must have knowledge to load and unload laser camera. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. This includes patient logbooks, requisition and editing of patient exams in the Radiology Information System (RIS), copying of films, etc. Properly identifies patient through the RIS interface identifier and left/right markers. This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient films does not occur. The radiographer must be certain that the patient I.D. band and the request are identical. Asks each patient to verbally confirm his or her name and social security last four numbers. Assures that MRI patients are screened in advance for any contraindicating conditions per Radiology Service policy. Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that patients understand what is to be done as well as what hazards, if any, are possible. Responsible for stocking and inventory of all MRI and general imaging supplies and related material. Continually reviews new developments in MRI and general imaging. Is continually on the alert to improve quality of examinations utilizing the new technologies available. The purpose of this review is to provide the physicians and patients with the best possible films and scans for diagnostic purposes. Responsible for assuming various rotating schedules as determined by the Chief, Radiology Service. The rotation may include general imaging, MRI. Performs irregular hour emergency exams with on-call coverage for nights, weekends, and holidays. The schedule is on rotational basis based on number of qualified staff.Work Schedule: Monday-Friday; 10:30am-7:00pm; Subject to change based on the needs of the facility.Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of higher or unique qualifications or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade).Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year)Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience.Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child.Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66.Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VAInsurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)Telework: Not AvailableVirtual: This is not a virtual position.Functional Statement #: 629-01297-F