Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

This position is located in the Diagnostics & Therapeutics (D&T) Service Line at the Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, New York. This position functions as a diagnostic radiologic technologist for the Radiology Department. The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist at this grade level is qualified to provide diagnostic radiologic services, including x‑ray radiology and computerized tomography (CT). Duties General Duties DRTs perform procedures, examinations, and prepare and administer contrast media and medications in accordance with Federal regulations. All DRTs must be knowledgeable in computerized and digital radiography (CR/DR), and picture archiving and communications systems (PACS). The technologist properly identifies patient and type of contrast administered, timelines for any timed examinations, patient position and all other identifying markers for that view/scan and areas of interest. The technologist operates digital fluoro and the C‑arm, performs radiographic exams at the bedside and in the operating rooms providing diagnostic x‑rays to the surgeons and professional staff on patients that are unable to be x‑rayed in the Radiology and performs all general radiology exams, providing proper explanation of procedures to patients and completes appropriate evaluations of medical records when applicable. Computed Tomography requires specific knowledge of cross‑sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or, multi‑slice computer tomography, inclusive of 3‑D reconstruction scans, including drainages, biopsies, cardiac CTAs and peripheral vascular examinations. The technologist requires knowledge and training in the location, appearance, and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination; ability to interpret the examination request accurately, understand the functioning and inter‑relationship of the various organs, use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of interest to the physician. The technologist performs interventional CT biopsy exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques. This requires proper preparation of sterile trays, labeling of medications dispensed to sterile trays, knowledge of supplies and specific locations, and assuring measures taken to prevent contamination of the patient and equipment. The technologist prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist that are used in CT. This specialty requires knowledge of I STAT procedures and insert IV needles for administration of contrast material. This is achieved by ensuring all policies and procedure are adhered to and maintaining knowledge in CT dose optimization. The technologist works with CT schedule to assure timely accomplishment of assigned workload, making day‑to‑day adjustments in accordance with established priorities. Quality and Safety for Imaging The technologist performs daily inspection of radiographic units to ensure proper mechanical functionality. The technologists must be aware of and practice safety policies and procedures of the Medical Center and participate in quality assurance activities. Technologist must report equipment malfunction in a timely manner through the vha buf 114 equipment email group or nursing supervisor on non‑administrative hours if patient care is impacted. Proper attention is required to maintain the integrity of the equipment. The technologist maintains competency and thorough knowledge of the processes for Critical, Semi‑Critical, and Non‑Critical Reusable Medical Equipment (RME) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) that document the process and procedures for cleaning, disinfection, sterilization and preparation of RME and follow established procedures for all RME for appropriate modalities. The technologist provides in‑service training to other technologists and students involved in the operation and maintenance of DR panels and other PACS operations maintained within the department. The technologist works with physicists to ensure compliance with radiation and Magnetic Resonance Imaging safety program. The technologist maintains accurate records to include fluoroscopy logs for quality assurance analysis, quality control, performance improvement, and other related purposes. Adheres to Radiation Safety guidelines, properly determines applying technical factors to ensure ALARA dose optimization, positioning, required views, etc. to produce and satisfy requirements for diagnostic imaging. Promptly reports all accidents and notifies supervisor of unsafe/unhealthful conditions in the workplace. The technologist maintains electronic records and files of exams performed on patients where applicable. This includes the maintenance of electronically secured spreadsheets, registration and editing of patient exams in the computerized information system and ensuring all images and required paperwork is properly filled out and scanned in to the PACS system, in the correct orientation and on the correct patient. Work Schedule: Saturday & Sunday, Midnight - 10:00am Functional Statement # 21V90A #J-18808-Ljbffr