Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Computed Tomography

About the role

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Computed Tomography (CT) Technologist has responsibility for the coordination and performance of the CT section and works closely with fellow Technologists, Radiologists, Clinicians and Administrative staff to assure optimum quality control, efficient coordination of activities, high quality diagnostic/therapeutic exam results, and patient satisfaction. The duties of this position are performed within the Chillicothe VA Radiology Department.

Responsibilities

• Independently performs all Computerized Tomography and general Radiography protocols with and without the use of contrast materials.
• Ensures that adequate quantities of CT supplies are available to meet workload demands through a systemized process of ordering, receipt and inventory control.
• Assists in the coordination of the repair of CT/XR equipment. May serve as the liaison between Radiology and Biomedical Engineering and repair contractors. Recommends equipment improvements, repairs, upgrades, etc.
• Schedules exams in a manner so as to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases.
• 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.
• Thorough knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices, techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, genetic changes, and effects of radiation on living organisms. Insures correct machine techniques to minimize such exposures, monitors the safeguards, and recognizes when changes of equipment or procedures might result in increased exposure. Ability to recommend alternative methods to prevent such exposures.
• Identifies patients and any associated health information.
• Explain exams to patients so that patients understand what is to be done as well as what hazards, if any, are possible.
• Administering patient's records, entering progress notes and general record keeping; is familiar with basic first aid and CPR techniques and methods for handling disturbed psychiatric patients.

Requirements

All qualified candidates encouraged to apply. Open to U.S. Citizens but non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens.

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).
• Education Requirement: You must have completed 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).
• Certification: You 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). 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.
• Experience: To qualify for the GS-9 grade level, you must have 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. Candidates at this grade level must be qualified to independently provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services with only occasional oversight or direction for highly complex issues. Examples include, checking system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines; having knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed; knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results; monitoring 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; and knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest.
• Education: Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.