Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist-Advanced DR/CT

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).] Credentialing Standards Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field English Language Proficiency DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d) Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist GS-9 Requirements : At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-8), directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level Examples of experience is: (a) Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines (b) Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed (c) Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results (d) Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed (e) Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers (f) Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest In addition to meeting the requirements above applicants must also demonstrate the following: GS-9 [Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist KSAs: The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure iv Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients Advanced ARRT Certification-Computed Tomography (CT) This specialty modality requires specific knowledge of cross sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or, multi-slice computer tomography, inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans, including drainages, biopsies, and peripheral vascular examinations The technologist requires specific knowledge and training in the location, appearance, and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination to interpret the examination request accurately to understand the functioning and interrelationship of the various organs to use the methods and techniques which will identify organs 5 appearing on the digital display monitor, or on film, and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of interest to the physician [DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification.] Preferred Experience: 2 years experience preferred Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit The full performance level of this position is the GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-09 Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019 - Heavy Lifting (45 lbs and over) Heavy Carrying (45 lbs and over) Straight Pulling (up to 1 hour) Pushing (1 - 2 hours) Reaching above shoulder Use of fingers Both hands required Walking (up to 3 hours) Standing (up to 3 hours) Repeated bending (up to 1 hour) Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously Near vision correctable at 13" to 16" Hearing (aid permitted) ]]>