Summary
This position is located in the Diagnostics & Therapeutics (D&T) Service Line at the Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, New York. It functions as a Medical Instrument Technologist for the Diagnostic Imaging department, with responsibilities including completing other imaging sub-specialties such as diagnostic medical sonography.
Qualifications
Applicants pending completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
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 at the GS-4 and GS-5 levels. See the grade requirements part of this standard for information regarding substitutions.
- Licensure or Certification: Diagnostic Ultrasound Technicians operate diagnostic ultrasonic scanning equipment to produce images used to diagnose diseases and conditions. Registration is offered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).
- Grade Determinations: GS-8 requires at least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level, demonstrating the knowledge, skills, and abilities related to performing diagnostic ultrasound examinations in complex cases. Demonstrated KSAs include performing ultrasound examinations on multiple body areas, vascular studies, assisting radiologists with biopsies, and supporting surgical procedures.
- Assignment: This is the full performance level for diagnostic ultrasound, including performing complex examinations independently, including in ICU, emergency, and surgical settings. The preferred experience includes ARDMS certification. The full performance level is GS-8.
- Physical Requirements: Refer to VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
Duties
- Receives and interprets requests for ultrasound procedures.
- Performs ultrasound studies, records, and processes images for radiologist interpretation.
- Conducts a range of exams including abdominal, pelvic, trans-vaginal, and vascular studies.
- Understands ultrasound principles and equipment to evaluate scan acceptability.
- Prepares patients, explains procedures, and assists with patient movement and positioning.
- Coordinates scheduling and prioritizes urgent procedures.
- Maintains records of examinations and patient data.
- Performs portable sonography in various clinical settings, including ICU and emergency.
- Handles difficult cases, including trauma and critically ill patients, with professionalism and care.
- Administers contrast materials as needed under supervision, monitors patient reactions, and manages adverse events, including CPR if necessary.
- Ensures safety protocols, sterilizes equipment, and maintains supplies.
- Captures and transmits images, troubleshoots equipment, and participates in training students and new staff.