Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

This position is located at the Community-Based Outpatient Clinic, Diagnostic Imaging Department in Sierra Vista, AZ. DRTs perform procedures and examinations in hospitals or clinics under the direction of radiologists and other medical officers.

The objective of the examinations and procedures is to produce radiographic studies that are used in medical diagnosis and interpreted by medical officers to locate injuries, foreign bodies, pathological conditions, or lesions within the body. 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 (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. 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). English Language Proficiency.

DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). 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: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist GS-8 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.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: The candidate must demonstrate all of the following 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. Preferred Experience: 2 years general XR experience References:

VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G25, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. Physical Requirements:

Light to Moderate lifting and carrying, up to 44 pounds; straight pulling; reaching above shoulders; use of both hands and fingers required; walking, standing; crawling; kneeling; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; near vision correctable at 13" to 16" to Jaeger 1 to 4; depth perception; ability to distinguish basic colors and shades of colors; hearing (aid permitted). ["Major duties include, but are not limited to: Responsible for maintaining the established standard of imaging quality and provide supervision and assistance as required for Radiologic Technology students who may be assigned to the Diagnostic Imaging Department. Performs examinations of the head, trunk and extremities for routine examinations and for diagnosis of illness and/or injuries of accident victims.

As workload dictates will be assigned to perform other duties such as check-in and registration of patients, answer phones, assist other services when needs arise. Operates portable(C-arms) and fixed(RF and hybrid rooms) fluoroscopy equipment in the operating room and other locations. Specialty Services supported by DRT team include, but not limited to, anesthesia, audiology and speech, cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, ENT, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurosurgery, oncology, ophthalmology, optometry, orthopedics, pain management, pulmonology, rheumatology, urology, and vascular surgery.

Responsible to the radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs. Practices radiation safety to reduce exposure to patient, staff and self, As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) principles. This is achieved using lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls, and collimation.

The technologists, to assure compliance to radiation regulations, will wear dosimetry badges. The incumbent must also be aware of and practice the safety policies/procedures of the medical center, Diagnostic Imaging Service, and participate in quality assurance activities as directed. Prepares patient for exam, setting up technical factors, performing Quality assurance and other related items associated with producing quality examinations.

Performs basic monitoring practices (BP, placement of EKG leads, O2, Pulse Oximetry, ProPac, sterile technique) related to radiography including emergency cardiac arrest procedures (CPR). Correctly sends the images to the PAC's system. May utilize laser cameras for processing of hard copy images, and if necessary, sends images to outside interpreting service. In the absence of the film librarian, the technologist will be required to locate films, images and reports for physicians to ensure quality patient care.

This will involve the use of PC's, CD's, MEDICOM, etc., and other electronic equipment to produce the images or reports. This non-invasive test measures bone mineral content to diagnose a systemic skeletal disease (osteoporosis) characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural distortion of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. Technologist will measure height and weight for each patient prior to exam.

Technologist will complete questionnaire with patient to ensure accurate documentation. Work Schedule: 8:00am-4:30pm Telework: Not Available Virtual:

This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]