Nuclear Medicine Technologists are responsible for independently performing a full range of routine. non- routine, research and new radionuclide studies to include PET/CT. The responsibilities of the nuclear medicine technologist include an empathetic and instructional approach to patient care, the preparation, calibration and administration of radiopharmaceuticals and pharmaceuticals under the direction of an authorized user (nuclear medicine physician) the performance of quality control procedures, the operation of imaging, laboratory and computer instrumentation and the application of accepted standards (ALARA)of radiation safety and protection. The Technologist works within the guidelines from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Department of Transportation (DOT), National Health Physics Program, Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) among others. Continuing education is a necessary component in maintaining the skills required to perform the ever-changing duties, to stay current as new imaging drugs and imaging equipment is developed, and to maintain licensure. The incumbent is a registered CNMT or ARRT (N).
NOTE: The full performance level of this vacancy is 11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of 05 to 11. The Professional Standards Board (a peer-review group) will review the selected candidate’s education and experience and recommend the grade and step at which the candidate will be placed. The salary is based on the grade and step approved for the selected candidate.
Special Employment Consideration: VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
KEY REQUIREMENTS

* U. S. Citizenship * Must pass pre-employment examination * English Language Proficiency required * Designated and-or Random Drug Testing required * Background and-or Security Investigation required

DUTIES:
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Relocation Expenses: Relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Prepare, assay, verify and measure diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceutical dosages for patients
Prepare patients for procedures and assists the MD with administering treadmill and drug-induced Cardiac Stress tests
Start IV's. proper placing of EKG leads, taking blood pressures, and ensuring all monitoring equipment is functional.
Obtain pertinent clinical data from the patient, electronic chart. requisition. and interviewing the patient and/or family.
Calibrate the glucometer and perform blood glucose measurements on patients prior to PET/CT injection.
Perform radiation surveys, post appropriate caution signs, and distributes personnel monitoring devices as required. Isolates, properly monitors and stores radioactive waste for disposal.
Troubleshoot and make judgments on the acceptable performance of equipment prior to initiating any patient procedures.
Perform monitors and documents monthly, quarterly and annual quality control procedures on equipment
Assume the duties and responsibilities in the operation and calibration of the PET/CT scanner
Take blood pressures, acquire EKGs, operate the treadmill for stress testing.
Develop patient education materials and protocols for new procedures in cooperation with the chief technologist.