Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Computed Tomography (CT)

Description:

This position is located at the Miami VA Healthcare System Diagnostic Imaging Service. The principal responsibilities of the DRT (CT) are to perform CT scan procedures for the patients. The incumbent will perform the technical functions related to CT imaging procedures such as CT Colonography, CT Enterography, CT Angiography ( Heart and coronaries, Head, Chest, Abdomen, and Pelvis), and CT Cerebral Perfusion studies.

Requirements:

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 . DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d).
• 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 Computed Tomography (ARRT (R)(CT)).
• 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.
• Loss of Credential. An employee in this occupation 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.

Grandfathering Provision. 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).

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 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.

Grade Determinations. In addition to meeting the basic requirements stated above, the following qualifications criteria must be met.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT), GS-9

• Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade (GS-8) level, directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level which are:
  • 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.
• Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs). In addition, 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.
  • 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.

Reference. For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/ .

Physical Requirements. The physical demands of the work include: Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers, good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking, prolonged standing; repeated bending; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20; ability to distinguish basic colors; hearing (aid permitted); speed in working; and emotional stability. Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time.