Diagnostic Radiologic Tech; CT

Overview

The incumbent serves as a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT) for the Imaging Service at the VHA WNY HCS. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologists complete assignments in specialized areas that include general diagnostic radiologic technology (R) (to include general OR procedures and Fluoroscopy studies) - and computed tomography (CT).

A copy of the position's grade level Assignment Title and Qualification Requirements are below. Additional qualifications for this position can also be found in VA Handbook 5005 - Part II - Appendix G25.Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - GS-9. 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.

Assignments. For all assignments above the full performance level - the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope - complexity (difficulty) - and range of variety - and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments:
Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist. 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 (*):

• 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 healthcare 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.

NOTE:

Qualifications found within Appendix G are to be used without modification. Per WMC regulations - qualifications may not be added or removed.

• General Radiologic Technology - DRTs perform procedures and examinations in hospitals or clinics under the direction of Lead Technologists and Imaging Manager
• The objective of the examinations and procedures is to produce radiographic studies that are used in medical diagnosis and interpreted by radiologists to locate injuries - foreign bodies - pathological conditions - or lesions within the body
• They prepare and administer contrast media and medications in accordance with Federal regulations
• Computed Tomography (CT) - 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 - cardiac CTAs 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 organs
• to use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor 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
• The technologist performs Interventional CT biopsy exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques
• This requires proper preparation of sterile trays - proper labeling of medications dispensed to sterile trays - knowledge of supplies and specific locations - and assuring measures have been taken to prevent contamination of the patient and equipment
• The technologist prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist that are used in CT - to include CT Angiography and other exams
• This specialty requires knowledge of I STAT procedures and insert IV needles for administration of contrast material
• The technologist must be familiar with policies and procedures for practicing radiation safety to reduce exposure to patients - staff - and self
• This is achieved by optimizing technical factors and ensuring all policies and procedure are adhered to and maintaining knowledge in CT dose optimization
• The technologist is competent and maintains all computed tomography protocoling requirements
• The technologist works with CT schedule to assure timely accomplishment…