Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography)

Veterans Health Administration • Cincinnati, OH

5d • Onsite

About The Position

This Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist position is assigned to the Computed Tomography (CT) section of Radiology Service at the Cincinnati VA Medical Center. The role performs a broad range of CT imaging and interventional procedures, operating imaging equipment to produce diagnostically acceptable examinations while using the least amount of radiation necessary. The technologist uses independent judgment to adjust examinations or procedures for patients’ medical conditions and body habitus, and completes studies within established priorities for stat, pre-operative, urgent, and routine requests.

The technologist performs CT examinations of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and extremities; 3D reconstructions, multiplanar reformats, angiographic studies, CT myelography, and, for appropriately trained technologists, cardiac imaging. Interventional work includes biopsies, radiofrequency ablations, abscess drainages, and cyst aspirations. Duties also include preparing contrast materials, maintaining venipuncture competence, and using sterile techniques for interventional biopsies. The technologist follows infection-control practices, maintains electronic examination records, and uses office software for document and email tasks. The schedule is Tuesday through Friday, 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with rotating call.

Requirements

• At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, directly related to the position, demonstrating the required clinical competencies.
• Completion of a full-time diagnostic radiologic technology training program of at least 24 months (or equivalent) after high school, evidenced by a certificate or associate degree, and accredited by JRCERT or another Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency.
• Certification in general radiologic technology by ARRT (R). Advanced ARRT certification is required for independent CT assignments, though on-the-job training with certified-technologist oversight may be provided to technologists who do not yet hold advanced certification.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Ability to balance patient and staff needs while performing complex scans and procedures.
• Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from medical records, significant others, and health care providers.
• Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate a 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 patient care.
• Knowledge of CT cross-sectional anatomy and its application to spiral and/or multislice CT, including 3D reconstruction scans, drainages, biopsies, and peripheral vascular examinations.
• Ability to check imaging systems for operation, assess performance against guidelines, and adjust calibration parameters as needed.
• Knowledge of patients’ clinical records, diagnoses, and laboratory results; ability to monitor physiological changes during procedures and keep the radiologist informed.
• Skill in tactful and courteous interactions with patients, staff, families, visitors, and volunteers.
• Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, recognition of unusual images, and positioning to demonstrate areas of interest.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, subject to applicable VA appointment rules for non-citizens.
• Must pass the required background/security investigation, pre-employment physical examination, and drug screening if selected for a testing-designated position; seasonal influenza vaccination is required for VA health care personnel.
• Must complete the required application and onboarding processes and serve a one- or two-year trial period.
• Must meet applicable credentialing standards and maintain required certification; failure to maintain certification may result in removal from the occupation and possible termination.
• Must meet the position’s physical demands, including heavy lifting, prolonged standing and walking, and working in a lead apron.

Responsibilities

• Operate a variety of imaging equipment to obtain examinations of acceptable quality while using the least radiation necessary.
• Perform CT imaging of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and extremities, including 3D reconstructions, multiplanar reformats, and angiographic studies as requested or required by standard procedure.
• Perform CT interventional procedures, including biopsies, radiofrequency ablations, abscess drainages, and cyst aspirations.
• Perform CT angiography of the Circle of Willis, carotids, abdominal aortas, and run-offs; perform cardiac CT imaging when appropriately trained and CT myelography using specialized series.
• Perform interventional CT biopsies using sterile techniques; prepare sterile trays, label medications placed on trays, locate supplies, and prevent contamination of patients and equipment.
• Maintain competence in venipuncture and follow Radiology Service guidance for contrast media administration and power injection.
• Prepare contrast materials under radiologist direction for CT, including CT angiography and other examinations.
• Complete imaging studies within established guidelines for stat, pre-operative, urgent, and routine examinations.
• Coordinate with the CT schedule to complete workload on time, adjust to priorities and additional assignments, and optimize scan times while accommodating emergent cases.
• Apply Medical Center and Radiology Service infection-control practices and procedures for patients and staff.
• Use independent judgment to vary examinations or treatment procedures to account for individual patient medical conditions and body habitus.
• Maintain electronic records and files of patient examinations.
• Use word-processing and office automation software to store and retrieve documents, operate printers, edit and format documents, and send and receive email.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and regular salary increases; a higher step rate may be considered for qualifying higher or unique qualifications or VA staffing needs.
• 37–50 days of annual paid time off per year, including 13–26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
• Potential credit toward annual leave accrual based on prior work or military service, subject to approval.
• Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of employment, in connection with birth, adoption, or foster-care placement.
• Eligible full-time employees may qualify for a child care subsidy after 60 days of employment, subject to income and other eligibility criteria.
• Traditional federal pension, with five-year vesting, and federal 401(k) with up to 5% in VA contributions.
• Federal health, vision, dental, term life, and long-term care insurance; some coverage may continue into retirement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree