Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI)

Summary

Performs all aspects of Magnetic Resonance Imaging - including but not limited to Head - Neck - Chest - Abdomen - Pelvis - Extremities - MR Angiography - MR Venography - and MR cardiac 75% of the time. Incumbent operates Conventional and Mobile radiographic equipment and PACS 25% of the time.

Qualifications

Applicants must meet qualifications at time of application.

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-Documentation Submitted
• 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
• [In modalities that require advanced certification - to support their continued development - technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist
• Education-Transcripts Submitted
• Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the 2 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) Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for appointment - the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates:GS-9Experience
• 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
• AND 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 (*): 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
• Reference: For more information on this qualification standard - please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
• Physical Requirements: The incumbent must be in overall good health - able to sit at a desk working at a computer - engage in light to moderate physical activity including sitting - walking - bending - and carrying supplies
• The incumbent must be able to perform primarily light and sedentary duties with occasionally moderate physical demands with reasonable accommodation - if necessary - without endangering the health and safety of others
• Position requires walking throughout the clinic and/or Medical Center - standing for extended periods of time - and involves sitting at a computer and in counsel and consultation with Veterans and interdisciplinary teams
• Position may require minimal travel.
  
  

Duties

• Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional Duties include but are not limited to the following: Performs MRI Exams: Conducts a range of simple to advanced MRI procedures (Brain - Cardiac - MSK - etc.) with and without contrast - following prescribed protocols and radiologist instructions
• Ensures Patient Safety: Screens patients for metallic implants or other contraindications - explains procedures - ensures patient comfort - and monitors them for unusual reactions or complications
• Operates Equipment: Uses complex MRI scanners and related computerized imaging equipment - adhering to established safety protocols and operating procedures
• Manages Contrast Media: Prepares and administers contrast material and other medications as directed - after reviewing patient allergies - lab results - and renal function
• Maintains Image Quality: Controls technical factors - monitors exam results - and performs quality assurance checks on images before transmitting them to the PACS network
• Handles Patient Information: Verifies patient identity and information - accurately documents all relevant data - and manages records - both in a computer system and during downtime procedures
• Coordinates Workflow: Manages patient scheduling - transport - and overall workflow to maximize efficiency and accommodate emergency cases
• Maintains Work Environment: Ensures the MRI suite and equipment are clean - well-stocked - and disinfected according to infection control standards
• Performs Interventional Tasks: Prepares sterile equipment and assists radiologists with interventional procedures as needed
• Addresses Equipment Issues: Promptly reports any equipment malfunctions to appropriate personnel
• Work Schedule: variable to include on call weekends and holidays Compressed/Flexible: Not authorized Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position
• Functional Statement #: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI)
• 82076F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized