This position is assigned to the Nursing Service, Emergency Department of Jesse Brown VA Medical Center located in Chicago, Illinois. The purpose of this position is to provide a varied range of supportive and direct care duties at the ward level in support of patient activities. To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. GS-06 grade level: One year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-06 grade level in the federal service); experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities (KSA's) and other characteristics to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled, in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Specialized experience includes: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GS-6: Must possess at least (1) one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-5) that required the application of the knowledge, skills, and abilities of this position. Specialized experience includes, but is not limited to: providing direct patient care; providing assistance while observing for signs of potential complications to patients; Examples of specialized experience include (but are not limited to): Knowledge of equipment, diagnostic and treatment procedures commonly used in the Nursing service. Skill to apply such knowledge to perform a variety of procedures that includes collecting, labeling, and recording for proper analysis. Knowledge of normal and abnormal situations to recognize and report abnormalities. Knowledge of sterilization methods to prevent the spread of Infectious diseases. Skill and knowledge to provide competent educational instructions to patient on personal hygiene, proper self-aftercare; provides emotional support and understanding. -Knowledge of the performance of 12-lead ECG's along with skills in operating, maintaining, and performing quality check of finger stick glucose instruments, and ECG machines. -Knowledge of infection control, aseptic and sterile technique to prevent cross contamination and spread of Infection. -Knowledge of a body of standardized procedures sufficient to perform routine support activities and direct care activities at the ward level. This will require a given amount of training and experience. -Knowledge and skill sufficient to observe patients physical and emotional state of being, so as to be award of when it is necessary to call for assistance. -Knowledge and skill necessary to communicate effectively with patients and staff members, -Knowledge and skill sufficient to take a variety of samples, such as sputum or urine samples, and conduct simple tests, such as vital signs, and recording results. This typically includes explaining the procedure to the patient. -Knowledge and skill sufficient to maintain and store medical supply items and/or equipment. Knowledge and skill sufficient to serve as a basic contact with psychiatric patients with sufficient interpersonal skill to reassure patients. - Knowledge and skill sufficient to observe and report on simple reactions and changes to the Registered Nurse. There is no educational substitution for the GS-06 level. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. ["This position is organizationally assigned to Nursing Service, Emergency Department. The Health Technician is a non-licensed member of the nursing care team. The incumbent performs a wide range of direct and indirect patient care activities and related supportive services to assist in providing total patient care. The incumbent is under the general guidance and direction of a Registered Nurse. This position level encompasses the responsibility for having the knowledge and ability to perform tasks that are supportive of patient activities including, lifting, transporting, escorting and assisting in making the patient care environment organized and efficient. Also included is the ability to perform diagnostic support duties, such as vital signs, I/O, and finger stick glucose testing. This role requires the Individual to demonstrate excellent observation, perception, and judgment skills. He/She must show initiative and pay meticulous attention to detail. Work Schedule:\nPosition Description Title/PD#: Health Technician (Emergency Department)/ 09218A Physical Requirements: The work involves periods of standing as well as considerable walking, bending, stooping, stretching, lifting (not to exceed 20 lbs.), moving of equipment and assists with positioning of patients. The work also requires agility and dexterity to handle complex medical instruments. Work Environment: The work environment involves regular and recurring exposure to infections and contagious diseases, as well as working with infectious substances, irritant reagents, and potentially emotionally disturbed patients; The technician Is required to follow infection control policies relating to the use of universal precautions and posted isolation practices. These policies may require the wearing of protective gowns, gloves, masks, and eyewear."]