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Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound)
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration
Application
Details
Posted: 21-Jan-23
Location: White City, Oregon
Salary: Open
Categories:
Allied Health
Internal Number: 701185600
The Medical Instrument Technologist (MIT) Diagnostic Ultrasound position is assigned to the VA Southern Oregon Rehabilitation Center and Clinics (SORCC) imaging Service. 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. Grade Determinations: Grade Determinations: Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultra-Sound) GS-9. In addition to the core competencies defined at the GS-8 full performance level, positions at this grade may be lead, supervisory, or non-supervisory with specialized advanced knowledge and assignments. (a) 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 (*): (b) 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. 1. 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. *2. Knowledge of Joint Commission and other regulatory requirements. 3. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with employees at varying grade levels. *4. Ability to manage and supervise employees. *5. Ability to provide, or provide for, staff development and training. (c) Certification. Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) is highly desirable. Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) is required and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are desirable. Preferred Experience: Two years of recent post graduate, full time experience as an independent ultrasound technologist performing abdomen, pelvis, superficial, and vascular studies. ARDMS certifications in two or more of the following: abdomen, musculoskeletal, vascular sonography. Extensive experience with geriatric patients. References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/54 PART II APPENDIX G27 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. ["The Diagnostic ultrasound technologist is regarded as the expert source of all ultrasound imaging, and the interpreting radiologist relies heavily on the skills, knowledge, and abilities of the sonographers in providing a final interpretation. Within this specialization there is a diverse range of ultrasound imaging sub-specialties. These include diagnostic medical sonography, abdominal and vascular technology, vascular and related organs. At the full performance level the incumbent is responsible for a variety of duties, including, but not limited to, the following: Performs outpatient and inpatient (location dependent) ultrasound examinations ranging from the routine to the highly specialized. Exams may be performed in the Imaging Department or portable depending on patient care needs. The technologist will be responsible for maneuvering, setting up, and adjusting equipment necessary to perform exam.- Performs high quality and complex ultrasound examinations of the abdomen, retroperitoneal space, pelvis, scrotum, neck, and extremities. This includes both arterial and venous evaluations which utilize color flow and doppler. Advises Radiologist, or ordering provider if Radiologist is not available, of significant abnormalities that may require immediate attention. Knowledgeable in the principles of ultrasound and specialized ultrasound equipment. Has working knowledge of ultrasound controls and functions, such as gain, TGC, focus, and depth to acquire diagnostic images. Can adjust scanning technique to optimize image quality and diagnostic information. Ability to select appropriate transducer according to exam type and patient size. Uses their critical thinking skills and knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy, physiology, and pathology to analyze and document necessary images so that a comprehensive and accurate examination is completed and sufficient data is provided to the Radiologist for interpretation. Performs measurements and calculations according to protocol. Identifies and documents any limitations to examination. Initiates additional scanning techniques when indicated. Adapts to changes in procedures, protocols, policy, and patient needs. Preps patients according to study and patient condition. Explains the examination to the patient and responds to patient questions and concerns. Assists patients in maneuvering to various positions necessary for exam. This position demands a significant degree of personal responsibility and involves personal contact with patients. This requires a sensitivity to patient conditions and a capacity to establish rapport with patients in order to gain their cooperation and set them at ease. Interprets and protocols ultrasound requests submitted by clinician or provider and consults with Radiologist if an uncommon or new procedure is ordered, or a difficult situation is encountered. Evaluates the nature of critical and emergent procedures and rearranges priorities to accommodate these exams. Technologist must be skilled in, and able to, carry out various procedures to include localizations, biopsies, aspirations, and drainages. Prepares sterile tray, to include contrast, catheters, and guide wires. Appropriately labels all articles on the sterile tray to minimize hazards associated with invasive procedures. Maintains sterile field before and during procedure. Knowledge of anatomy, cross sectional anatomy, and physiology such as the location, appearance and function of the major and minor systems applicable to ultrasound. Adheres to: hospital infection control and safety policies and techniques; the storage of sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids and 'sharps'; proper attire; hand washing practices; time-out procedure; and correct site invasive procedure. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 0800-1630 Telework: Not Available. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
Providing Health Care for Veterans: The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,255 health care facilities, including 170 medical centers and 1,074 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.