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This Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT), Computed Tomography (CT), position is assigned to the MEDVAMC Outpatient Clinic, Radiology Service; CT section within the Conroe Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC). The DRT CT is considered an Advanced DRT and must independently perform and complete varying assignments including support of general x-ray, diagnostic CT, and other general diagnostic imaging, regardless of the nature and complexity of the specific assignments. BASIC REQUIREMENTS: 1. United States Citizenship. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Chapter 3, Section A, paragraph 3.g. 2. Certification. All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R). You must submit a copy of your unexpired certification from American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R) to receive credit. 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. 3. 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). You must submit a copy of your certificate or transcript showing awarded associate's degree to receive credit. 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. 4. English Language Proficiency. Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). GRADE DETERMINATION: In addition to meeting the above Basic Requirements, you must also meet the Grade Determination criteria below. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography), GS-09 1. Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. In order to qualify, the experience must demonstrate that the candidate independently provided services in computed tomography with only occasional oversight or direction for highly complex issues. To receive credit, you must demonstrate the experience through job tasks and list hours worked per week in your resume. 2. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*) in their resume: *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. 3. 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 inter-relationship 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. DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT (CT) certification. You must submit a copy of your unexpired certification from American Registry of Radiologic Technology, advanced ARRT (CT) to receive credit. Preferred Experience: 3 years experience in CT BLS certification References: VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G25, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard, dated December 13, 2019. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-09. Physical Requirements: Must be compliant with the following physical standards and environmental factors: Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; straight pulling; pulling hand over hand; pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers, good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking, prolonged standing; repeated bending; both legs required; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20 and to 20/40 in the other; both eyes required; depth perception; ability to distinguish basic colors; ability to distinguish shades of colors; hearing (aid permitted); emotional and mental stability; and speed in working. Working conditions include: outside and inside work; exposure to radiant energy; constant noise (machinery/equipment); working around hazardous machinery with moving parts; working closely with others; working alone; working protracted or irregular hours of work; occasional odors; and may be required to wear a mask. Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time. (See VA Directive and Handbook 5019, Employee Occupational Health Service) ["This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until September 29, 2023 or until this position is filled. The initial cut-off date for referral of eligible applications will be December 15, 2022 and every Thursday until it closes. Current permanent VA employees and Federal employees from other federal agency should apply under CBST-11893711-23-ML. The duties of the Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography) includes but is not limited to: Works under the supervision of the Outpatient Clinic Administrative Officer and /or Lead Technologist and rotates all responsibilities within the CT section. He/she works independently on most exams but confers with Radiologists and the Lead Technologist on more difficult problems. Work is spot-checked for achievement of objectives. Performs all aspects of CT imaging to include: Head, Neck, Chest, Abdomen, Pelvis Extremities, 3D Reconstructions of CT, Multi-Planar Reformats CT and Angiographic studies when requested and/or when part of a standard procedure. Performs CT Angiography of the Circle of Willis, Carotids, Abdominal Aortas, Run-Off's, including. The radiographic goal of CT is to provide high quality axial imaging; generate the best possible images at the minimal radiation dose necessary to the patient. Works independently on most exams but confers with Radiologists and Lead Technologist on more difficult problems. Work is spot-checked for achievement of objectives. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist that are used in CT, to include CT Angiography and other 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, the technologist 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. Technologist is certified to insert IV needles for administration of contrast material, when necessary. The technologist is trained in the proper use of power injectors. Performs daily Quality Assurance to include documentation of the required data. Receives and interprets all radiology requests for accuracy, appropriateness; date desired and maintains a thorough knowledge of the ordering process in CPRS. Thoroughly reviews the CT orders screening information for accuracy, noting and researching all questionable information prior to contacting the patient or performing the exam. Inputs pertinent information into the designated computer systems and has knowledge to register, complete, cancel and edit exams. Performs and completes imaging studies within the established guidelines for stat, pre- op, urgent, and routine exams. Works with CT schedule to assure timely accomplishment of assigned workload, making day-to-day adjustments in accordance with established priorities and additional assignments. Optimizes scan times while maintaining flexibility for emergent cases. This requires the ability to prioritize scheduled patients as well as the ability to accommodate the emergent patient. Maximize patient throughput by contacts with escort, ward secretaries, nursing personnel, etc. Maintains adequate supplies and pharmaceuticals used in the department. Responsible for stocking and inventory of all supplies, notifying supervisor when supplies are not available and monitoring expiration dates to ensure all items are within compliance. Uses independent judgment and possess the ability to vary exams or treatment procedures Confers with Radiologists to determine requirement of non-standard exams. Determines technical factors to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scans. Technologist advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results and notifies them of procedures requiring their immediate attention. Makes minor equipment adjustments, repairs and exercises care in the handling and safeguarding of all equipment. Technologist will check equipment for proper function prior to performing procedures. Technologist must report equipment malfunction in a timely manner through Maximo and follow-up email to lead technologist, CBOC Director, Bio-meds and PACS, so as proper attention is ensured to maintain the integrity of the equipment. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 580-00087-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

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