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Summary

The DRT(MRI) technologist operates an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scanner to acquire diagnostic images of patients to enable the diagnosis of disease and to guide patient management. The MRI technologist has primary responsibility to ensure that MRI safety principles are applied in the environment and with patient care. Exam requests are screened for appropriateness and reviewed with a radiologist as needed.

Qualifications

Applicants pending the 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
• Certification
• All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology - Radiography (ARRT) (R)
• Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT) - magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - [or Mammography (M) duties performed independently - as applicable]
• Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent [can operate independently] and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination
• [In modalities that require advanced certification - to support their continued development - technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist
• Education
• Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program - evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree - accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from [other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).] English Language Proficiency
• DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) - and 7407(d)
• 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)
• Preferred Experience: Two years or greater experience as registered MRI technologist
• Reference: For more information on this qualification standard - please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
• The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-09
• The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-09
• Physical Requirements: Frequent standing - walking - grasping - carrying - reaching - bending - stooping and speaking
• Lifting - carrying - pushing and pulling up to 25 pounds
• Frequent use of computer keyboard and phone
• Precise control of power-assisted equipment and devices.

Duties

• Major Duties: Receive patients - confirm patient identification - obtain patient history - provide patient education - provide reassurance and ensure patient comfort
• Review exam requests for appropriateness before performing exams
• Use appropriateness criteria - the clinical history provided on the request - patient interview - chart review or contact with the ordering clinician to clarify as needed
• Apply principles of customer service and whole health to promote a positive patient experience
• Practice strict adherence to MRI safety principles
• Perform safety screening of all patients - visitors and staff entering zones III and IV
• Perform the technical operations to acquire diagnostic MRI images--operate the MRI scanner controls and apply radiofrequency coils and other associated devices and supplies
• Establish venous access using a sheath-needle type angio-catheter employing sterile technique
• Apply infection control practices - including knowledge of modes of transmission - levels of precautions and preventive measures
• The incumbent reports to the Supervisor MIT (MRI)/MRI Safety Officer - who manages immediate operations such as workflow - work assignments - breaks and lunches - technical and MRI safety consultation - troubleshooting and other facets of operations management
• Work assignments include data collection for performance improvement - equipment QC - exam tracking and audits and other administrative duties assigned by the Supervisor MIT (MRI)/MRI Safety Officer
• The incumbent is responsible to perform work assignments with required accuracy and timeliness - and to solicit guidance and clarification as needed
• Work Schedule: Intermittent Telework: Not available
• Virtual: This is not a virtual position.