The Fusion Imaging Nuclear Medicine Technologist (NMT) independently performs various dynamic and static diagnostic Nuclear Medicine procedures on veterans at the Dublin VA Medical Center. 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 nuclear medicine technology by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (N). NMTCB or ARRT (N) certification eligibility requirements are normally satisfied by one of the following: (1) Completion of a NMTCB-recognized nuclear medicine technology program, OR (2) Completion of a nuclear medicine technology program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT), or other accrediting agencies as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE), culminating in a certificate, associate, baccalaureate, or master's degree. Educational programs must have structured clinical training sufficient to provide clinical competency in radiation safety, instrumentation, clinical procedures, and radio-pharmacy, as deemed acceptable by the NMTCB. English Language Proficiency. NMTs must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, of this part. 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). Grade Determinations: Nuclear Medicine Technologist (Fusion Imaging Technologist) , GS-11. Experience: Completion of 1 year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade (GS-9) level directly related to the position being filled. Assignment. Assignments. For all assignments above the journey level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. NMTs at this level are fully functional as an advanced NMT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. NMTs in this assignment perform fusion imaging such as positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) and/or positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance (PET/MR) procedures that include non-diagnostic low dose CT attenuation corrected or MR fused images. They carry out these complex assignments independently. Assignments may include advanced therapies. The work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs: Ability to produce and assess high quality fusion and quality control images using independent judgement to recognize abnormal or unacceptable results. Practical knowledge and skill in the use of ancillary equipment with an understanding of how the results will affect the study outcome. Knowledge of physiologic processes as they relate to altered radiopharmaceutical uptake and/or artefactual findings. Knowledge of CT and/or MR radiographic techniques utilized in quality control and acquisition parameters. Ability to recognize and correct fusion imaging system errors. Preferred Experience: Minimum of 1 year Nuclear Medicine ARRT/CMNT certification/experience in a hospital setting. BLS certification preferred. Knowledge physiologic processes as they relate to altered radiopharmaceutical uptake and/or artefactual findings. Knowledge of CT radiographic techniques utilized in quality control and acquisition parameters. Ability to recognize and correct fusion imaging system. References: VA Handbook 5005/125 Transmittal Sheet 12/10/2019. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. Physical Requirements: The incumbent usually works standing and has patient contact involving occasional heavy lifting, and/or assisting patients. This can be particularly severe when patients are combative and uncooperative. The computer area of the in vivo section calls for long periods of working around loud noise, prolonged concentration and long periods of sitting, while working under pressure of a deadline to produce accurate patient test results. They must have full manual dexterity and keyboarding skills. Must be able to express or exchange ideas by means of the spoken and written word. Must be able to view and read information on computer screens. ["Duties include but not limited to: The Nuclear Medicine Technologist has the responsibility for providing a wide range of specialized and complex nuclear medicine procedures, including diagnostic imaging, therapy with unsealed radioactive materials, radio-assay, in-vivo or in-vitro cell labeling; evaluating abnormal results; using and maintaining equipment; setting up and monitoring quality control; working within guidelines from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission INRC), Department of Transportation (DOT), National Health Physics Program, Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) among others. Calculate, prepare, assay, and administer radiopharmaceutical doses by injection, inhalation or ingestion as prescribed, which includes the compounding of cold pharmaceutical kits with the required radioactive agent under sterility requirements. Proficient in introducing intravenous catheters in patients for administration of radiopharmaceuticals and/or pharmaceuticals. Calculate the required pharmaceutical dosage for procedures; prepare pharmaceuticals for injection, such as sincalide, lasix, captopril, adenosine, dipyridamole, regadenoson, and dobutamine; and administer the pharmaceuticals with the Nuclear Medicine Physician and/or the Nuclear Medicine Physician Assistant. Operate nuclear medicine equipment such as gamma cameras, well counters, multi channel analyzers, GM survey meters and room monitors, thyroid uptake systems, and dose calibrators for various patient procedures. Use of 12-lead ECG for monitoring during cardiac stress testing and IV infusion pumps for controlled administration of non-radioactive medications. Receive patients, explain procedure, answer questions and evaluate the patient's medical condition and tolerability for the procedure, position patient for all necessary imaging steps and tend to their comfort for the duration of the procedure. Schedule basic and complex imaging studies Demonstrate a thorough understanding of personnel requiring film badges. Read and understand the film badge exposure report. Prepare studies for nuclear medicine physician's interpretation by ensuring completeness of all forms involved in the procedure. Record appropriate data and related information on the proper patient worksheet and images. Analyze procedure images for quality and obtain additional images when necessary. Accurate ordering of standard & specialized radiopharmaceuticals and radioactive material. Obtain pertinent clinical data from the patient, electronic chart, requisition, and interviewing the patient and/or family. Recognize potential radiation contamination by visual and mechanical method. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 8am-430pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 54935F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized"]
