Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound)

Summary

Diagnostic Ultrasound Technicians operate diagnostic ultrasonic scanning equipment to produce cross sectional and two dimensional pictures of internal organs and body structures used to diagnose diseases and other medical conditions. They perform independent portable ultrasound examinations in the intensive care units - emergency room - surgery - and throughout the Medical Center when required.

Qualifications

Must meet all qualifications requirements 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
• Education
• There are 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
• Licensure or Certification is not required for this occupation
• however - it is strongly desirable at GS-6 or above as evidence of possession of the essential knowledge - skills - and abilities
• For certain functional areas at the higher levels or supervisory assignments - specific certifications appropriate to the specialty are indicated in this standard under ""Titles and Certification/Registrations."" For all specialties identified in this standard - Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support certifications are desirable
• Training which does not result in official certification does not meet this definition
• 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: Experience
• At least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level - which is directly related to the duties of the position to be filled - and must fully meet the KSAs at that level
• This would be specialized experience which demonstrates possession of the knowledge required in order to provide all aspects of diagnostic ultrasonography services
• In addition - the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs and the potential to acquire the assignment specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): Demonstrated Knowledge - Skills - and Abilities
• KSAs 1 - 2 - and 3 are appropriate for all positions at this level
• KSAs 4 and 5 are to be 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 in these procedures - to evaluate and initiate performance improvement projects - and to 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 - or provide for - staff development and training
• Preferred Experience: Graduate of an ultrasound program
• Registries from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (ARDMS): Abdomen - OB/GYN - Vascular sonography
• 3 years working experience
• 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

• The Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound) - GS-649-9 duties include - but are not limited to the following: Performs a full range of Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound exams including general and vascular imaging
• Performs all studies in accordance with established guidelines and protocols - demonstrating the highest diagnostic quality with fast turnaround time
• Only the total study is presented for immediate interpretation to the Radiologist
• Independently operates all designated equipment according to specifications listed in the Operator's manual
• Performs appropriate preventative maintenance on assigned equipment and reports any malfunctions immediately to proper supervisory staff
• Has thorough knowledge of PACS
• Insures an atmosphere of professionalism - safety and satisfaction for patients - family - and co-workers alike
• Incumbent protects both printed and electronic files containing sensitive data in accordance with the provisions of the Privacy Act of 1974 as well as other applicable laws - federal regulations - VA statutes and policy - and VHA policy
• Incumbent is willing and able to learn new procedures and technology
• Is flexible and able to adapt to new and changing situations
• Performs General - Vascular - Small parts - Biopsies - Portables to the ED and inpatient floors
• Work Schedule: Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position
• Functional Statement #: Medical Instrument Technician - GS-0649-09 - 80169F
• Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized