Nuclear Medicine Technologist (Multi-Modality Technologist)

Summary

Nuclear Medicine Technologist (Multi-Modality Technologist) Responsible for performing a wide range of specialized clinical procedures using radioactive materials at a higher level of duties which consists of significant scope and complexity, ranging in a wide variety. A recruitment/relocation incentive may be authorized for highly qualified applicants.

Duties

• A recruitment/relocation incentive may be authorized for highly qualified applicants. Duties include, but are not limited to: PET/CT Specific Serves as a technologist for the PET/CT modality, performing daily and periodic quality control testing of PET/CT scanner (and other supporting equipment), organizing workflow, and performing patient studies. Receives patient, explains procedure, answers questions relating to the procedure, positions patient for all necessary views and tends to patient comfort. Obtains clinical data from the patient, electronic chart, requisition, and interviewing the patient and/or family for choosing appropriate imaging protocol. Qualified to obtain patient blood glucose level prior to injecting imaging tracer to determine if scan is appropriate based on that level. Routinely passes quality control testing to stay current on operating glucometer. Prepares, assays, and administers F-18 FOG or other prescribed positron emitting radiopharmaceuticals, recording, patient and dose parameters essential to interpretation of scan. Utilizes knowledge and proficiency in the performance of CT scans with optimization of scanning parameters (mA, kVp, pitch, FOV, etc).Prepares studies for nuclear medicine physician's and general radiologist's interpretation by ensuring completeness of all forms involved in the procedure, processing, and transmitting images to fusion workstation/PACS. Nuclear Medicine Specific Independently performs routine and complex diagnostic imaging procedures including static, dynamic, and SPECT/CT scans. Receives all nuclear medicine procedure requests and schedules according to preferred date, taking into consideration other appointments, preparation criteria, and convenience for veterans. Prepares and administers radiopharmaceuticals by injection, inhalation, or orally. Explains exams to patient so that the patient understands what is to be done as well as what hazards if any.Prepares patient for exams by achieving intravenous access and placing IV catheter when needed utilizing aseptic technique and standard precautions for infection control. Ensures correct study is being performed on the specified patient by reviewing appropriateness of indication and patient's medical history. Works with cardiology staff physicians, fellows, and other personnel to screen all patients and determine which nuclear medicine cardiac test is appropriate; taking into consideration lung diseases, weight, ability to exercise, medications, etc. Radiation Safety Follows radiation safety practices to minimize exposure to patient, staff, and self. This is achieved by using shielding and appropriate PPE, with thorough understanding and practice of "As Low As Reasonable Achievable" (ALARA) principles. Capable of performing complex therapies and other duties that relate to treatments. Performs in-vitro cell labeling for various procedures while carefully following appropriate blood labeling measures and record keeping. Performs daily and weekly laboratory surveys and wipes tests to verify absence of radioactive contamination. Assists the National Health Physics Program (NHPP) and Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in audits and inspections ensuring regulatory compliance. Maintains records associated with incoming diagnostic doses, DOT wipes, departmental surveys, administration, and disposal of radionuclides as mandated by the NHPP and NRC. Scheduling Fields all orders while screening them for urgency, appropriateness, and contraindications. Completes a full history that's applicable to scan such as: Medications that interfere with exam and notes the length of discontinuation to avoid inaccurate results. Obtains physician approval before any medications stopped. Works with patient and other clinics to schedule and coordinate exam(s) in accordance with VA scheduling mandates. Explains test and extensive prep that patient must follow to complete exam. Work Schedule: Full-time; Monday-Friday, 7:00am-3:30pm Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized

Requirements

You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Education

Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.