This diagnostic radiologic technologist position in Imaging Service involves performing both general diagnostic radiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) functions, with a focus on MRI. The role requires rotating on-call shifts and operating in both modalities during these times, ensuring optimal imaging for patient pathology and assisting radiologists with contrast material administration.
Responsibilities
Take images in three cross-sectional planes: axial, coronal, and sagittal
Activate the proper MR software programs, data processing, archival, and data transfer system
Modify coil selection, field of view, pixel size, and number of averages to affect the image signal to noise ratio as needed
Confer with system engineers regarding software integration and adjustments of the operation of MRI and patient monitoring equipment
Obtain optimum imaging with regards to patient's pathology and take additional images to fully illustrate any abnormalities
Start IV's on patients
Follow infection control policies during IV insertions and contrast administration
Inject contrast material per Radiologist direction for MRI exams and advise Radiologist of those examinations which require immediate attention while the patient is still undergoing the examination
Assist Radiologist in the administration of contrast material agents
Interact with patients, explain exam procedures, position patients within the MRI scanner, and monitor patients during all phases of the examination
When operating the MRI, coordinate with Radiologist to determine the most ideal parameters and technical factors of the magnet for each individualized patient examination
Monitor the examination by checking computations, performances, and results of the selected parameters, to obtain the best diagnostic computer data and images
Review new advancements in MRI procedures, protocols, and equipment as they are brought forward to meet patient care needs
Requirements
United States citizenship (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy)
Certification in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT)(R)
Advanced ARRT certification for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate's degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from schools accredited by the ARRT and certification by the ARRT in radiology
Ability to pass a pre-employment physical
Millions of jobs, with real people getting hired every day
200,000+
New jobs added daily
7,000,000+
Verified job listings
1,000,000+
Tailored applications submitted
Proficiency in spoken and written English in accordance with VA policy
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 the GS-08 level. Examples include: taking images in three cross-sectional planes, axial, coronal, and sagittal; modifying coil selection, field of view, pixel size, and number of averages, to affect the image signal to noise ratio; properly utilizing the PACS imaging archive system to ensure that studies are properly demonstrated on the imaging archive system; processing images using CR digital systems; obtaining optimum imaging with regards to patients pathology, taking additional images to fully illustrate any abnormalities; injecting contrast material per Radiologist direction for MRI exams; assisting Radiologist in the administration of contrast material agents; interacting with patients, explaining exam procedures, positioning patients within the MRI scanner, and monitoring patients during all phases of the exam; coordinating with the Radiologist to determine the most ideal parameters and technical factors of the magnet for each patient exam; monitoring the exam by checking computations, performances, and results of the selected parameters to obtain the best diagnostic computer data and images; and following MRI safety policies that govern a magnetic environment that patients, visitors, and equipment enter into.
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
Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest
Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures
Skill to demonstrate appropriate techniques to gather 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
Important Details
Schedule: Various rotating shifts; on-call required. This section provides 24 hours/7 days a week service. Specific shifts may be discussed at the time of interview or selection.
References
VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office.
