Medical Instrument Technician; Ultrasound

Summary

Performs a wide variety of complex ultrasound (US) imaging examinations for Fayetteville VAMC patients to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of disease and injury. Operates diagnostic ultrasonic scanning equipment to produce cross sectional and two‑dimensional pictures of internal organs and body structures to include abdomen, breast, small parts, retroperitoneal, transvaginal and carotid and venous vascular exams.

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.

• 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.
• Medical Instrument Technicians must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 2 – section D – paragraph 5a.
• No specific educational requirements for this occupation; education may be substituted for experience only at the GS‑4 and GS‑5 levels. See the grade requirements part of this standard for information regarding educational substitutions.
• Licensure or Certification is not required; however it is strongly desirable at GS‑6 or above as evidence of possession of essential knowledge, skills, and abilities. For certain functional areas at higher levels or supervisory assignments, specific certifications appropriate to the specialty are indicated in this standard under “Titles and Certification/Registrations.” Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support certifications are desirable.
• At least one year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level, directly related to the duties of the position and fully meeting the KSAs at that level.
• Technical KSAs and potential to acquire assignment‑specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*). KSAs 1–3 are appropriate for all positions at this level; KSAs 4 and 5 are used in accordance with their appropriateness for the specific assignment.
• Knowledge of the more complex examination and treatment procedures and techniques in order to provide training and supervision, evaluate and initiate performance improvement projects, and write policies, procedures, and protocols that pertain to diagnostic ultrasonography.
• Knowledge of JCAHO and other regulatory requirements.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with employees at varying grade levels.
• Ability to manage and supervise employees; ability to provide for staff development and training.
• Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) is highly desirable.
• Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are also desirable.

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• Receives and reviews requests from physicians and other health care providers for US examinations of patients.
• Determines the condition(s) at issue and the best way to meet the needs of the individual case.
• Receives and positions patient for examination.
• Explains procedures and actions to allay fears and secure maximum cooperation.
• Sets up, adjusts, and operates sonography equipment.
• Selects the appropriate protocol(s) and conducts examination, adjusting technique and equipment to best present the medically significant aspects found.
• Performs US exams to include, but not limited to: AAA screen, abdomen, aorta, bladder, breast, carotid, deep venous thrombosis, gallbladder, kidney, liver, pelvis, scrotum, spleen, thyroid, venous Doppler, renal and liver biopsy exams.
• If unanticipated conditions or anomalies are discovered, extends and modifies procedure to ensure full and accurate information as to findings and patient condition.
• Monitors patient condition during examination and, if necessary, renders emergency aid and summons assistance.
• Assists radiologist or physician in evaluating results.
• Trains other personnel in US principles, procedures, capabilities, techniques, and equipment.
• Explains concepts and principles of the methodology and its…