The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center is seeking a highly qualified candidate to fill an intermittent/PRN Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography) position within the Radiology Service in Wichita Kansas. Work Schedule: varies, including nights, weekends, and holidays Financial Disclosure Report: Not required Fair Labor Standards Act: Non-Exempt Bargaining Unit Status: Covered 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: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologists must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G27. Certification: Must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R). Additionally, advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), which is included in this announcement. Education: Must have completed a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic 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). 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). Grade Determinations: GS-05: Experience: At the GS-05 level, you must meet the basic language and education requirements listed above. NOTE: Non-certified DRTs may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate DRT under the authority of 38 U.S.C. 7405(c)(2)(B) for a period not to exceed two years for a DRT that provides care under the supervision of a certified DRT at or above the full performance level. GS-06: Experience: At the GS-06 level, you must have at least 1 year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-05). OR Successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related filed to diagnostic radiology/imaging. (Transcript required) AND In addition, you must demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs): Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure. Knowledge of anatomy and positioning. Knowledge of all patient safety procedures. Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment. Ability to learn basic computer functions. GS-07: Experience: At the GS-07 level, you must have at least 1 year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-06) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. OR Successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related filed to diagnostic radiology/imaging. (Transcript required) OR Successful completion of an advanced registry program, with certification, in addition to a 4-year bachelor's degree program in radiography or directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging. (Transcript required) AND In addition, you must demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs): Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system. Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, minimum radiographic exposure techniques, appropriate beam limitation to anatomical area, and employing lead shielding when performing standard radiographic and fluoroscopic procedures. Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems. GS-08: Experience: At the GS-08 level, you must have at least 1 year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-07) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Experience at the GS-07 level would include but not be limited to: Experience assisting with special procedures such as drainages and biopsies, routine diagnostic radiography, portable radiography, fluoroscopy, operating room imaging, and cross-sectional human anatomy and its application in computed tomography including post-processing applications. AND In addition, you must demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs): 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. **You must address the KSA's in your resume to be found qualified** References: VA Handbook 5005 Part II, Appendix G25, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standards. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-05 to GS-08. Physical Requirements: Lifting (15 lbs. and over); carrying (up to 20 lbs.); pulling and pushing (up to 2 hours); reaching above shoulder; standing and walking (up to 3 hours); bending (up to 1 hour); use of fingers/hands; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; near vision correctable at 13 - 16"; hearing (aide permitted). ["The DRT (CT) will be assigned in diagnostic radiology and computed tomography. Operating independently and without direct supervision as the technologist responsible for the performance and coordination of all diagnostic radiology examinations. These exams are performed with and without the use of contrast materials. Perform computerized tomography of the head, neck spine, chest, and body. These exams are performed with and the use of contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. Assist radiologists in the less complex fluoroscopic examinations. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams requiring injectable solutions and sterile trays for interventional procedures, and for the purpose of performing oral and rectal exams of the GI tract. In the case of injected media, a patient consent form must be obtained. These procedures require the use of needles, syringes, oral contrast, barium, enema bags and drinking cups. Responsible to the radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed in order to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs. Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patient, staff and self. This is achieved using lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls and collimation. The technologist is to assure compliance to radiation regulations wear film badges. Operates digital processor in order to provide adequate and proper processed radiographs. Performs most exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques. This requires \"scrub-in technique,\" preparation of surgical trays, preparation of contrast, supplying of catheters and guide wires, sterile assurance of the patient and equipment that may come in contact with the sterile field with the purpose of assuring that all preventive measures have been taken to prevent contamination of the patient. Adheres to hospital infection control and safety policies/techniques with emphasis on sterile technique; the storage of sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids and 'sharps'; proper attire; hand washing practices; and continuing education. Works with the radiologist as a member of the surgical/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, sterile field, catheter and guide wire sizes and configurations, etc. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. Edits and when necessary registers patients in the computerized Radiology Information System (RIS) as well as the work list management portion of the HIS-RIS interface. Properly identifies the patient and the image. Uses left and right markers. This is essential so that mistaken identity does not occur. The technologist must be certain that the patient ID band and the request are identical. May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Performs portable radiographic exams and operates c-arm fluoroscopy in other units outside of the Radiology Service. Performs CT exams in a manner so as to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. This requires the ability to prioritize scheduled patients as well as the ability to accommodate the emergency patient who may need immediate emergency surgery, etc. Confers with radiologists to determine requirement of non-standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning. Advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results. Notifies them of scans requiring their immediate attention. Performs myelography of the complete spine utilizing conventional x-ray units, spot films, patient immobilizers, etc., when required. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies of the spinal canal. Prepares contrast materials that are used in 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, 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. Performs reconstructions of CT and angiographic studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure. Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas."]
Providing Health Care for Veterans: The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,255 health care facilities, including 170 medical centers and 1,074 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.
We believe that good health is the cornerstone of progress. We are firm in our resolve to make exemplary health care accessible and affordable to all, dedicated to lowering the high rate of cardiovascular disease, including stroke, in minority populations and committed to advocacy and diversity. We are guided by ethical principles in all transactions and strive for excellence in our training and skills.