Cardiac Sonographer

Job Profile Summary

This role focuses on using various imaging techniques and practices to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. In addition, this role focuses on performing the following Ultrasound duties: Utilizes Ultrasound Technology to provide images of internal body structures. A clinical technologist role that has specialized knowledge or skills gained through a combination of vocational education, training, and experience. This role will be most commonly applied to patient care and/or scientific/laboratory jobs. An experienced level role requiring basic knowledge of job procedures and tools obtained through work experience and requiring vocational or technical education. Works under moderate supervision, works through problems of a routine nature, but may at times require interpretation or deviation from standard procedures and communicates information that requires some explanation or interpretation.

Job Overview

Under the direction of the supervising clinical leader, effectively performs all phases of cardiac ultrasound studies according to Policy and Procedure in a safe, accurate and timely manner which are necessary to for cardiological diagnoses. Under minimal supervision, this position performs and interprets a variety of diagnostic cardiac ultrasound procedures including m-mode, 2-D real time imaging and Doppler techniques (pulsed, CW, and color).

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Associate degree in Radiology or related field.

2. Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (ARDMS) or Registered Cardiac Sonographer (CCI).

3. Basic Life Support Certification.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Radiologic Science.

2. Two (2) years of clinical experience

Duties and Responsibilities: The duties and responsibilities listed below are intended to describe the general nature of work and are not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

1. Performs cardiac ultrasound examinations; using m-mode, 2-D, 3-D, and Doppler techniques. Gives preliminary interpretation of study results to cardiologist.

2. Performs echocardiograms, and echos in the echocardiography laboratory, cardiac catheterization laboratory, intensive care unit, or ward units.

3. Assists physicians in obtaining transesophageal, intraoperative, and three-dimensional studies. Assists physicians in obtaining and recording data for research projects.

4. Maintains equipment in a clean and orderly condition and follows infection control practices.

5. Maintains a good working knowledge of charging and billing process. Responsible for charging appropriately.

6. Prepares patient, explains procedures to patient (and family) and obtains clinical information from patient's cardiology chart prior to exam.

7. Obtains permanent video or digital recordings and tracings from the ultrasound unit.

8. Makes appropriate measurements and calculations from information obtained during exam.

9. Acquisition and exporting of three-dimensional echocardiographic data, and off-line computer analysis of the data set for more detailed assessment of cardiac anatomy and quantification of cardiac function.

10. Ensures that all tests are officially read by the cardiologist; contributes technical and professional knowledge to final diagnostic impressions on reports, participates actively in echo reading sessions.

11. Proofreads the final official echo report before it is sent to medical records.

12. Participates in quality control and quality assurance on all ultrasonic equipment and instrumentation by recording and maintaining documentation for review. Maintains order and cleanliness of all equipment and work areas to ensure that all maintenance and infectious disease control guidelines are met.

13. Assists supervisor in the technical training of new sonographers and/or interns. Develops and maintains a teaching file system.

16. Assists in maintaining and ordering supplies as designated by supervisor.

Physical Requirements:

1. Frequent standing, occasional sitting & walking, lifting of 30-35 lbs.

2. Pushing, pulling & moving stretchers and ultrasound machines.

3. Requires manual dexterity using fine hand manipulation to operate transducers, ultrasound equipment & computer keyboard.

4. Hearing and visual sufficient to perform examinations, observe patients, read monitors and documents, hear equipment and hospital alarms.

5. Close contact with patients having contagious diseases.

6. Exposure to patients injected with radioisotopes.

7. Frequent contacts with patients, physicians, patients' families, and other personnel throughout the hospital.

Skills & Abilities:

1. An in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology is also required so the technologist can evaluate laboratory data, past medical history and pertinent symptoms to tailor the ultrasound examination to each patient individually in a safe, accurate and timely manner.

2. Proficient in small parts, venous, and carotid ultrasounds and procedures requiring ultrasound guidance.

3. Ability to perform exams in Doppler, M-mode, B-scan and real time modalities.

4. Ability to concentrate for long periods of time under various conditions while acquiring diagnostic information.

5. Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served in his/her assigned service area.

6. Ability to work independently to perform exams and will seek out assistance from others and supervisor as necessary.

7. Displays good judgment and works through a problem with creativity and remains focused and professional.

8. Responds to change and/or stats in work scheduling in a calm and appropriate manner.

9. Demonstrates cooperation with co-workers and management to ensure an atmosphere that is conductive to high quality patient's care.

10. Attention to detail is required for ensuring patient education, safety, comfort as well as discussing clinical situations with physicians.

11. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.