Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Computed Tomography

Summary

Performs computerized tomography of the head‑neck, spine, chest, and body. These exams are performed with and without the use of contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. A recruitment/relocation incentive may be authorized for highly qualified applicants.

• 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
• English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) – and 7407(d)
• 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)
• 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 U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field
• Loss of Credential:
  An employee in this occupation who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation – which may also result in termination of employment
• 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:
  Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist – GS‑9 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)
• 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
• 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 (*): THE TECHNICAL KSAs LIST (details below)
• i
• * Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures
• ii
• Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record – significant others – and health care providers
• iii
• * Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure
• iv
• Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography
• v
• Knowledge of physical assessment – aseptic techniques – intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions
• vi
• Knowledge of pre‑procedural – procedural – and post‑procedural care of patients
• Reference: For more information on this qualification standard –…