RVT _ Registered Vascular Technologist

S

Solvet

RVT _ Registered Vascular Technologist

Cambridge, MD
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

    POSITION DESCRIPTION (PD)
    Vascular Ultrasound Sonographer (ARDMS)
    Cambridge VA Outpatient Clinic – Cambridge, MD

    I. POSITION IDENTIFICATION

    Functional Statement Title: Vascular Ultrasound Sonographer
    Service: Radiology Service
    Duty Location: Cambridge VA Outpatient Clinic, Cambridge, MD
    Reports To: Chief, Radiology Service / COR (as designated)
    Position Type: Non-Personal Healthcare Services Contracted Position
    Tour of Duty: Monday–Friday, 08:00 – 17:00; on-call as required
    FLSA: Exempt (Contractor)

    II. POSITION SUMMARY

    The Vascular Ultrasound Sonographer provides comprehensive vascular diagnostic imaging services for the Washington D.C. VA Medical Center, operating at the Cambridge VA Outpatient Clinic. The incumbent independently performs non-invasive vascular examinations and ensures diagnostic accuracy in accordance with American College of Radiology (ACR) standards and Veterans Health Administration (VHA) directives.

    The Sonographer delivers direct patient care, produces high-quality vascular studies, documents findings in the VA Electronic Health Record (EHR), and collaborates with physicians, nursing staff, and administrative leadership to ensure timely and safe Veteran care.

    III. SCOPE OF ASSIGNMENT

    The Sonographer performs highly specialized vascular testing using advanced diagnostic ultrasound techniques in support of the evaluation and treatment of peripheral arterial, venous, and cerebrovascular disease. The work includes clinical, technical, documentation, safety, and administrative duties as defined in the VA’s Performance Work Statement (PWS).

    Assignment requires independent judgment, advanced technical skill, and the ability to identify, analyze, and communicate abnormal findings essential to quality patient care.

    IV. MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

    A. Clinical Duties

    The Sonographer independently performs the following diagnostic procedures:

    1. Duplex ultrasound of arterial and venous systems of upper and lower extremities.
    2. Carotid and vertebral artery duplex imaging for cerebrovascular assessment.
    3. Pulse Volume Recordings (PVR) and segmental blood pressure studies.
    4. Doppler and waveform analysis, treadmill testing, and reactive hyperemia evaluations.
    5. Impedance plethysmography and Doppler for suspected deep vein thrombosis.
    6. Initiation of IV lines for contrast-enhanced studies (as applicable).
    7. Proper identification of all anatomical structures and recognition of abnormal pathology.
    8. Delivery of a preliminary diagnostic assessment to the supervising physician.

    The Sonographer ensures all examinations meet or exceed ACR technical quality standards.

    B. Patient Care Responsibilities

    1. Provides patient education regarding procedures, expectations, and post-exam instructions.
    2. Ensures compassionate, respectful care that reflects VA Core Values (I-CARE).
    3. Maintains patient comfort and addresses barriers to care (mobility, pain, anxiety).
    4. Communicates effectively with referring providers and clinical staff.

    C. Documentation & Reporting

    1. Enters all imaging data, clinical notes, and procedural details into the VA EHR in accordance with VHA Directive 1907.01.
    2. Ensures accuracy, completeness, and legibility of all exam documentation.
    3. Immediately reports patient safety incidents within required 24-hour VA reporting windows.

    D. Compliance & Safety

    1. Complies with:
      • HIPAA
      • Privacy Act
      • VHA Directive 1605.01
      • OSHA and CDC infection control standards
      • VA facility policies related to safety, data privacy, and ethics
    2. Maintains current annual infection control screenings (PPD, immunizations).
    3. Ensures safe equipment operation and promptly reports malfunctioning devices.

    E. Administrative & Quality Responsibilities

    1. Participates in Quality Assurance/Quality Improvement (QA/QI) per facility guidelines.
    2. Completes mandatory annual training (HIPAA, cybersecurity, safety, compliance).
    3. Meets FPPE/OPPE professional performance metrics, including:
      • Image quality audits
      • Timeliness standards
      • Completeness of documentation
    4. Adheres to all requirements identified in the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP).

    V. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES (KSAs)

    The Sonographer must demonstrate:

    1. Advanced knowledge of vascular anatomy, physiology, and pathology.
    2. Skill in performing independent non-invasive vascular diagnostic testing.
    3. Proficiency with duplex ultrasound instrumentation and software systems.
    4. Ability to analyze hemodynamic data and recognize life-threatening findings.
    5. Strong interpersonal communication skills with patients and interdisciplinary teams.
    6. Competence in documentation and adherence to clinical guidelines and standards.

    VI. QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS

    A. Licensure & Certification

    • ARDMS Certification in Vascular Technology (RVT) (Required).
    • Unrestricted license (if applicable by state or specialty).
    • BLS Certification (ACLS as required).

    B. Background & Credentialing

    Must meet all VA credentialing and privileging requirements under:

    • VHA Directive 1100.20 (Credentialing)
    • VHA Directive 1100.21 (Privileging)
    • National Practitioner Data Bank review (NPDB)
    • OIG Exclusion List Check
    • Favorable Background Check (VA Handbook 0710)

    C. Education & Experience

    • Completion of an accredited vascular or diagnostic ultrasound program.
    • Minimum one (1) year vascular ultrasound experience preferred.
    • Must read, write, speak, and understand English fluently.

    VII. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

    The position requires:

    • Standing and walking for extended periods
    • Lifting up to 45 pounds intermittently
    • Repetitive motion associated with scanning
    • Ability to assist patients in movement and positioning
    • Use of PPE and adherence to infection control protocols

    VIII. PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

    Performance is evaluated through:

    • Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) metrics
    • FPPE/OPPE clinical performance reviews
    • Random sampling of exam quality and documentation
    • Patient safety and compliance audits
    • Attendance, punctuality, and professional conduct

    Failure to meet performance standards may result in corrective action, removal from assignment, or termination of contractual services.

    IX. SUPERVISION RECEIVED

    The Sonographer works under the general supervision of the Radiology Service Chief or designee. The VA Contracting Officer retains ultimate authority over contractual matters.

    Daily technical guidance is provided by designated clinical leadership and the COR.

    X. SUPERVISION EXERCISED

    None.

    XI. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

    • Must maintain credentials, certifications, and mandatory training.
    • Must comply with all VA rules, regulations, policies, and directives.
    • Must perform duties independently without creating an employer-employee relationship with VA