Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technician - Ultrasound Sonography

Description:

The incumbent performs both General Diagnostic Radiological exams and Sonography (S) imaging technologist functions. The technologist in this position performs the technical aspect of general diagnostic radiology 50% of the time and Sonography (S) 50% of the time. The individual in this position will use specialized knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and complex computer skills to complete their work tasks.

Requirements:

Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.

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: Must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R).
• 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).
• English Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d).

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 :
GS 09 - Must possess at least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-08), directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Specialized experience is defined as having specific knowledge of: 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, and knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest.

In addition to the experience above, must be able to demonstrate all of the following Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (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.

Preferred Experience: ARDMS certification in Sonography.

Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://department.va.gov/employees/va-qualifications-standards/ .

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 09.