Registered Sonographer, Cardiac

Works closely with the cardiologist to perform cardiac ultrasound procedures at the technical level, contributing to the efficient operation of the department and promoting the philosophy, to ensure the quality and continuity of patient care. Maintains the standard of care delivered to infants, toddlers, preschool and school age children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics.

Education, Experience, and/or Other Requirements

Must be ARDMS or RCS registered or be actively pursuing registration. One year of clinical experience in a progressive Ultrasound Department or Ultrasound Training Program that meets with the ARDMS requirements for registry eligibility is required. Prefer previous experience as a Registered ARRT Technologist. Must have a valid driver’s license in order to drive to outreach sites and screening events. Must be CPR certified.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Ability to effectively operate sonographic equipment.
• Ability to integrate sonograms, laboratory results, patient history and medical records, and adapt sonographic examination as necessary.
• Ability to use independent judgment.
• Ability to evaluate, synthesize, and communicate diagnostic information to the attending physician.
• Ability to communicate effectively with the patient and the health care team, recognizing the special nature of sonographic examinations and patient's needs.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public and the health care team.
• Ability to follow established departmental procedures.
• Ability to work efficiently and cope with emergency situations.

Environmental Factors

This position is performed within an environment of daily exposure to hazardous or potentially injurious elements or conditions.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Good eye/hand coordination, good vision and hearing.
• Ability to reach different table levels for scanning purposes.
• Ability to assist average sized person (150 pounds) to and from x-ray table, etc., in normal course of work. Upon occasion must be able to support average person for approximately two minutes.
• While performing the duties of the job the employee is regularly required to stand for 30-minute intervals for 70% of the day.
• The employee will frequently be required to lift, push and pull at least 5 to 50 pounds.
• Ability to attend to visual details.
• Ability to make precise arm/hand positions movements where strength and speed are minimized.
• Ability to communicate orally and in writing.
• Ability to receive and comprehend written and oral communications.

Mental Demands

• Analyze information or data.
• Plan sequence of operations or actions.
• Independent judgment, ingenuity, and initiative to produce accurate diagnostic images.
• Ability to adjust to performing routine and repetitive tasks without specific supervision. Ability to concentrate on fine detail with constant interruptions and attend to tasks for 45-60 minutes at a time.
• Ability to understand and relate to the concepts behind specific ideas and remember multiple tasks given to self and others over long periods of time.
• Ability to communicate verbally, using advanced level of vocabulary.

• Performs cardiac ultrasound procedures in accordance with department standards and procedures.
  • Plans daily schedules for inpatients and outpatients.
  • Performs examinations on ER patients as requested.
  • Selects and operates appropriate equipment for each exam.
  • Prepares patients for examinations; explains procedures.
  • Records clinical history, BP’s, and technologist impressions on CPACS/worksheets.
  • Works with Cardiologists and ordering physicians to provide appropriate patient care.
  • Maintains daily logbook.
  • Follows appropriate protocols.
• Adheres to all safety precautions including patient safety, infectious control, universal precautions, and ergonomics.
• Maintains or is actively pursuing ARDMS or RCS registration; remains current regarding developing trends in field of cardiac ultrasound.
• Maintains clean, neat and orderly work area; maintains appropriate supply levels.
  • Assists with maintenance on equipment.
  • Reports problems.
• Demonstrates cross-sectional anatomy and pathology on routine procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned. Is authorized to access contrast media if registered.