DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGIST - CT

Summary

Varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level - clinical instruction - and basic QM type duties within the program.

Qualifications

• Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program - evidenced by a certificate or an associate's degree - accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
• 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) - magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - [or Mammography (M)] duties performed independently - as applicable
• 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)

Education

• Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program - evidenced by a certificate or an associate's degree - accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)

Assignment

• This specialty modality requires specific knowledge of cross sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral - and/or - multi-slice computer tomography - inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans - including drainages - biopsies - and peripheral vascular examinations
• The technologist requires specific knowledge and training in the location - appearance - and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination to interpret the examination request accurately to understand the functioning and inter-relationship of the various organ systems to use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor - or on film - and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of interest to the physician
• [In modalities that require advanced certification - to support their continued development - technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist]

GS-09

• Knowledge - Skills - and Abilities: 1) 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

Physical Requirements

• General DESCRIPTION OF ASSIGNED DUTIES: The incumbent serves as a Computed Tomography (CT) Technologist - responsible for performing a full range of CT examinations of the head - neck - spine - chest - abdomen - and additional body regions using both contrast and non-contrast techniques
• The technologist exercises independent technical judgment to select appropriate imaging parameters - position patients accurately - and apply CT protocols in accordance with radiologist guidance to ensure high-quality diagnostic images supporting accurate clinical evaluation and treatment planning
• The incumbent prepares and administers contrast materials in accordance with established safety standards - maintains continuous awareness of patient condition - and responds promptly to patient reactions or complications
• The technologist adheres to all radiation safety requirements and employs dose-reduction techniques to provide safe imaging for patients - staff - and self
• Functions or scopes of practice: KSA's Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record - significant others - and health care providers Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography Knowledge of physical assessment - aseptic techniques - intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions Knowledge of pre-procedural - procedural - and post-procedural care of patients