Direct Jobs
Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Computed Tomography
Direct Jobs, Iowa City, Iowa, United States, 52245
Summary
Performs computerized tomography of the head‑neck, spine, chest, and body. These exams are performed with and without the use of contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. A recruitment/relocation incentive may be authorized for highly qualified applicants.
Qualifications
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) – and 7407(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 assignments that include computed tomography (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 maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation – which may also result in termination of employment
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‑9 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 assignments that include computed tomography (CT)
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
Employees at this level are fully functional as an advanced DRT and carry out their assigned tasks independently
DRTs at this level may have varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level – clinical instruction – and basic QM type duties within the program
Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment – the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level
The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment‑specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): THE TECHNICAL KSAs LIST (details below)
i
*Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures
ii
Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record – significant others – and health care providers
iii
*Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure
iv
Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography
v
Knowledge of physical assessment – aseptic techniques – intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions
vi
Knowledge of pre‑procedural – procedural – and post‑procedural care of patients
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard – please visit https://department.va.gov/employees/va-qualifications-standards/
Physical Requirements: You will be asked to participate in a pre‑employment examination or evaluation as part of the pre‑employment process for this position
Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.
Duties
This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT
We are accepting applications on an ongoing basis
Applicants will be reviewed on a bi‑weekly basis – as long as the vacancy exists
VA Careers – Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist: https://youtube.com/embed/I-4ku5UMvWM
Total Rewards of an Allied Health Professional Major duties include – but are not limited to: Schedules 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
Schedules patients for examinations
Advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results
Notifies them of scans requiring their immediate attention
Performs all procedures relative to all general CT
Exams and more complex exams such as CTA (CT Angiograms) – coronary – abdominal – and neuro exams
Performs some exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques
This requires 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
This is done to minimize hazards associated with invasive procedures and involves the use of sterile packs – gloves – syringes – guide wires – biopsy and drainage needles – catheters – cleanup trays – etc. – after exam is completed
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
Prepares contrast materials that are used in CT
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
Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patients – staff and self
This is achieved by – but not limited to – the use of lead aprons – lead gloves – lead shields – lead lined walls – adherence to scan protocol(s) – and collimation
Film badges are worn by the technologist in compliance with radiation regulations
Performs reconstructions of CT and angiographic studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure
Along with reprocessing data on 3D workstation
I.E.
MIP's – Volume – etc
Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients
This includes the maintenance of patient logbooks registration and editing of patient exams in the computerized information system
Properly identifies patient images
This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient images does not occur
The technologist must be certain that the patient I.D band and the request are identical
Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming patient name and social security number
Work Schedule: 07:30 to 16:00
Monday through Friday Recruitment Incentive (Sign‑on Bonus): Authorized Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases
When setting pay – a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of higher or unique qualifications or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade)
Paid Time Off: 37‑50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13‑26 days of annual leave – 13 days of sick leave – 11 paid Federal holidays per year) Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual – based on prior [work experience] or military service experience
Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment – up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth – adoption – or foster care placement of a child
Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment – full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long‑term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Qualifications
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) – and 7407(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 assignments that include computed tomography (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 maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation – which may also result in termination of employment
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‑9 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 assignments that include computed tomography (CT)
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
Employees at this level are fully functional as an advanced DRT and carry out their assigned tasks independently
DRTs at this level may have varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level – clinical instruction – and basic QM type duties within the program
Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment – the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level
The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment‑specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): THE TECHNICAL KSAs LIST (details below)
i
*Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures
ii
Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record – significant others – and health care providers
iii
*Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure
iv
Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography
v
Knowledge of physical assessment – aseptic techniques – intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions
vi
Knowledge of pre‑procedural – procedural – and post‑procedural care of patients
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard – please visit https://department.va.gov/employees/va-qualifications-standards/
Physical Requirements: You will be asked to participate in a pre‑employment examination or evaluation as part of the pre‑employment process for this position
Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.
Duties
This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT
We are accepting applications on an ongoing basis
Applicants will be reviewed on a bi‑weekly basis – as long as the vacancy exists
VA Careers – Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist: https://youtube.com/embed/I-4ku5UMvWM
Total Rewards of an Allied Health Professional Major duties include – but are not limited to: Schedules 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
Schedules patients for examinations
Advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results
Notifies them of scans requiring their immediate attention
Performs all procedures relative to all general CT
Exams and more complex exams such as CTA (CT Angiograms) – coronary – abdominal – and neuro exams
Performs some exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques
This requires 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
This is done to minimize hazards associated with invasive procedures and involves the use of sterile packs – gloves – syringes – guide wires – biopsy and drainage needles – catheters – cleanup trays – etc. – after exam is completed
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
Prepares contrast materials that are used in CT
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
Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patients – staff and self
This is achieved by – but not limited to – the use of lead aprons – lead gloves – lead shields – lead lined walls – adherence to scan protocol(s) – and collimation
Film badges are worn by the technologist in compliance with radiation regulations
Performs reconstructions of CT and angiographic studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure
Along with reprocessing data on 3D workstation
I.E.
MIP's – Volume – etc
Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients
This includes the maintenance of patient logbooks registration and editing of patient exams in the computerized information system
Properly identifies patient images
This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient images does not occur
The technologist must be certain that the patient I.D band and the request are identical
Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming patient name and social security number
Work Schedule: 07:30 to 16:00
Monday through Friday Recruitment Incentive (Sign‑on Bonus): Authorized Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases
When setting pay – a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of higher or unique qualifications or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade)
Paid Time Off: 37‑50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13‑26 days of annual leave – 13 days of sick leave – 11 paid Federal holidays per year) Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual – based on prior [work experience] or military service experience
Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment – up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth – adoption – or foster care placement of a child
Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment – full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long‑term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
#J-18808-Ljbffr