Health Technician

Duties

Performs a range of diagnostic laboratory support duties such as collection and labeling of specimens for the Laboratory. Performs repetitive diagnostic tests and procedures such as venipuncture for collection of blood specimens and collection/acceptance of other body fluids such as urine or sputum. Uses proper sterile techniques for collection of samples. Adheres to special instructions, such as coordination of transportation of lab specimens in accordance with laboratory protocols on ice, deliver immediately, protect from light, etc. Verifies the patient as the individual denoted on the request/labels using two approved forms of identification and assures all tubes are labeled with at least the patient's full name, full social security number, date and time of draw, and initials of individual obtaining specimens. Adheres to safety, infection control, and standard precautions at all times while drawing blood or performing testing. Work includes such things as removing tourniquets and wearing appropriate PPE to include gloves. Must be proficient in the area of phlebotomy, being able to draw all even the most difficult patients and follow proper procedures for redrawing blood. Responds to calls for assistance from the nursing staff in the collection of blood on the most challenging patients. Blood samples are collected with a minimal number of failures, patient bruising, or requiring redrawn specimens. Uses hospital computer system to accurately perform work such as reviewing and accepting lab orders, gathering information required to complete assigned duties, and researching and resolving problems. When performing special drawing procedures such as collecting timed specimens, inform patient and nursing staff in procedure to be followed prior to, during and after the test in order to obtain the specimens at the required time.

Must be able to respond to, report, and assist in emergency situations. Must know preliminary procedures for the care of patients who bruise, become sick, arrest or faint while having blood drawn. Observes and reports patient's physical or mental changes or unusual situations encountered (for example, patient in crisis) to appropriate personnel. Demonstrates self- control in difficult or emergency situations with minimal assistance. Monitors supply inventory, rotates stock and minimizes outdating. Responsible for determining that no outdated reagents, tubes, etc., are in work area or in use. Requests additional supplies as· needed using established protocols. Performs a range of diagnostic and support duties such as reporting deviations to the provider, labeling and then transporting specimens to the laboratory. Performs Point of Care testing as ordered. Cleans and assures equipment in working order and reports any malfunctions. Provides patient care that is appropriate to the cognitive, physical, emotional, and chronological maturation needs of the adult/geriatric patient. Serves as support for patients, families, visitors, and staff by providing guidance and direction on hospital policy and procedures. Demonstrates sensitivity and compassion in interactions. Maintains knowledge of the correct care of precleaning/disinfection of reusable medical equipment (RME). Open to shadow opportunities for new HT staff when orienting and provides support in the orientation into the Laboratory area and activities, provider needs and procedures. Serves as a responsible member of and contributes positively to the overall morale of the Laboratory team. Shows a willingness to learn, adapt to change, and accept additional responsibility while demonstrating flexibility and problem-solving skills. In the performance of official duties the employee has regular access to printed and electronic files containing sensitive data which must be protected under the provision of the Privacy Act and other applicable laws, federal regulations, VA statutes and policy, and VHA policy. The employee is responsible for: (1) protecting that data from unauthorized release or from loss, alteration, or unauthorized deletion, and (2) following applicable regulations and instructions regarding access to computerized files, release of access codes, etc., as set out in an automated information system security access agreement which the employee signs. Maintains a clean, safe environment. Removes defective equipment, reports hazards, observes safety regulations.

Work Schedule: 6am - 2:30pm, 3pm - 11:30pm or 10pm to 6:30am including rotating weekends and holidays. May be required to work varied day tours depending on the needs of the Laboratory.
Position Description Title/PD#: Health Technician/01691-A
Physical Requirements: Flexibility with hours of work and shift tours of duty. May work other tours if asked to work in other areas and does not affect primary work schedule. Involves long periods of standing and walking with regular recurring bending, lifting, and positioning patients. Computer, keyboard, and telephone work

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

• You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this job
• Subject to a background/suitability investigation
• Designated and/or random drug testing may be required
• May serve a probationary period
• Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
• A complete application package; Resume, Transcripts, etc.
• Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process

How You Will Be Evaluated

• Benefits

  A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

  Review our benefits

  Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

• Required Documents

  As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

  Documents Accepted:
  

  • Cover Letter
  • DD-214/ Statement of Service
  • Disability Letter (Schedule A)
  • Disability Letter (VA)
  • Professional Certification
  • Resume
  • SF-15
  • SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
  • Transcript

  
  Documents Required:
  

  • Resume

  
  
  Please review the above list(s) to ensure you have included all necessary documents required for your application.Not every applicant will require the same documents, therefore it is the applicants responsibility to ensure that their application package includes all necessary documents to determine qualifications and eligibility for appointment, such as a copy of your SF-50, transcript, ICTAP/CTAP documentation (for displaced Federal employees).You will not be contacted for additional information. Applicants will be deemed ineligible if supporting documentation is not submitted.
  
  Veterans' Preference: Since the Direct-Hire Recruitment Authority is being used, traditional Veterans' Preference rules do not apply. Qualified veterans will, however, be given full consideration for this position.
  
  Applications are accepted online. Applying online will allow you to review and track the status of your application.

  If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

  Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

  Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

• How to Apply

  All applicants are encouraged to apply online.
  
  To apply for this position, you must complete the occupational questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 11/25/2022 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11705201.
  
  1. To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USAJOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
  
  2. Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
  
  NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date. To verify your application is complete, log into your USAJOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the More Information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process.
  
  To return to an incomplete application, log into your USAJOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USAJOBS account or your application will be incomplete.

  
  

  Agency contact information

  Claudette DeShields

  Phone

  (302) 994-2511 X4816

  Email

  Claudette.DeShields@va.gov

  Address

  Lebanon VA Medical Center
  1700 South Lincoln Avenue
  Lebanon, PA 17042
  US

  Next steps

  After the vacancy announcement closes, applicants are evaluated to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email.

• Fair and Transparent

  The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

  • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
  • Reasonable accommodation policy
  • Financial suitability
  • Selective Service
  • New employee probationary period
  • Signature and false statements
  • Privacy Act
  • Social security number request

Required Documents

Clarification from the agency

ALL US CITIZENS. DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY: This position is being filled using Direct-Hire Authority (COVID-19 - VA 002) in-accordance with 5 U.S.C. 3304(a)(3) and 5 CFR 337.205(b)(1)-(4).