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The Radiology Department of the Columbia VA HCS in Columbia, SC is recruiting for a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography). This is an open continuous announcement. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis and qualified candidates will be considered, many vacancies are currently available. A RECRUITMENT INCENTIVE IS AUTHORIZED FOR THIS VACANCY. 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, 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]. 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. 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 Department of Education, and be certified as radiographers in their field. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). Knowledge of Current Radiologic Technology Practice. To be creditable, experience must have demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics (also referred to as clinical competencies) associated with current radiologic technology practice. This may have been evidenced by the equivalent of one year of active practice, which is paid or non-paid employment as a DRT as defined by ARRT. Quality of Experience. Experience is only creditable if it was earned after completion of the basic certification requirements identified in paragraph 2b above. Experience as a graduate DRT is creditable provided the candidate functioned as a DRT and subsequently passed the certification examination. 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, 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 interrelationship of the various organs; 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. DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification. Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates: 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: 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. References: VA Handbook 5005/119 Part II Appendix G25 12/2019 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-09. Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work includes: Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers, good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking, prolonged standing; repeated bending; stooping; stretching; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20; ability to distinguish basic colors; hearing (aid permitted); speed in working; pulling without assistance from another patient care provider or significant other and emotional stability. Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time. ["Scope of Duties: The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT) performs Computed Tomography. The duties for this position are performed without direct supervision, duties for this position include but are not limited to the following: Operates a wide variety of imaging equipment to obtain examinations of acceptable quality, utilizing the least amount of radiation to obtain quality imaging for diagnosis and localization purposes and all other assigned duties. Maintains competency in venipuncture to adequately complete IVs for contrast exams. Performs all aspects of CT imaging to include: Head, Neck, Chest, Abdomen, Pelvis Extremities, 3D Reconstructions of CT, Multi-Planar Reformats for CT and Angiographic studies when requested and/or when part of a standard procedure. Performs all aspects of CT Interventional Radiography, including Biopsies, RF Ablations, Abscess drainages, cyst aspirations, and all other exams. Performs CT Angiography of the Circle of Willis, Carotids, Abdominal Aortas, and Run Offs, utilizing specialized series to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis. Performs Interventional CT 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. Maintains certification in BLS or AED. Critiquing images for quality and notifying the Radiologist of significant exams requiring immediate attention while the patient is undergoing the examination. These exams are performed with and without contrast materials. Accomplishes procedures, handles deviation in work assignments in line with previous experience and observations. Ensures that all documentation required for the completion of exams is complete in data entry systems. Maintains effective control of the Radiology Department by coordinating, organizing and executing the work potential to expedite workflow patterns with the department. Performs all Diagnostic procedures to include administrative duties associated with each procedure. Performs other related duties assigned to this position. Work Schedule: Nights/Weekends, Will be on schedule for rotating weekends, and holidays. May be required to work on different shift during periods of staffing shortages. (Hours are subject to change based on the needs of the agency) Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography)/PD00347A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: May Be Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Available Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

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