Cardiac Sonographer

Primary Purpose

Operates ultrasound equipment used to produce quality routine and fairly complex diagnostic scans to ensure optimal patient care.

Minimum Specifications

Education:

• Must have successfully completed an 18 month allied health education program in Cardiac ultrasound.
• Preference will be given to graduates of an ultrasound program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRCDMS).
• Or, successfully completed an 18 month allied health education program in Ultrasound.

Experience

• Minimum experience for cardiac sonographers must include one year of full-time experience in a clinic/hospital setting or clinical rotation in a clinic/hospital setting during a sonography training program or equivalent experience in a hospital setting.
• For all other specialty, must have 1 year full-time experience in a clinic/hospital setting or clinical rotation during a sonography training program or equivalent in a hospital setting.

Certification/Registration/Licensure:

• Sonographers in Cardiology must have a certification as a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) or Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS).
• Must have a current Healthcare Provider (BLS Level) CPR course completion card prior to hire and/or placement in job from one of the following:
• American Heart Association
• American Red Cross Rescuer
• Military Training Network

Skills or Special Abilities:

• Must be able to operate various types of ultrasound equipment used in performing procedures.
• Must be able to communicate effectively.
• Must be able to demonstrate knowledge of both normal and abnormal anatomy.
• Must be able to demonstrate patient centered/patient valued behaviors.

Responsibilities:

• Operates ultrasound equipment used to produce fairly complex diagnostic scans to ensure optimal patient care.
• Evaluates and verifies the image quality according to PHHS standards to ensure the observance of quality control protocol.
• Reviews and interprets intermediate/complex exams with attending physician to determine if additional procedures are required.
• Determines equipment needs for fairly complex examinations to ensure the availability of needed supplies.
• Identifies and distinguishes appropriate modality of cardiac ultrasound including motion mode, Doppler, two dimensional and color flow and operates ultrasound to ensure the most effective sonographic records.
• Maintains and performs intermediate troubleshooting of ultrasound equipment and informs supervisor as needed to ensure maximum availability of operable equipment.
• Inspects, cleans, and prepares exam rooms after each patient to ensure the efficiency of patient flow within the area.
• Completes, logs, and distributes billing reports to appropriate individuals to ensure the accuracy of patient charges.
• Identifies ways to improve work processes and improve customer (internal as well as external) satisfaction. Makes recommendations to supervisor, implements and monitors results as appropriate in support of the overall goals and mission of the PHHS.
• Participates in various research studies regarding intermediate sonographic procedures with other medical staff to ensure improved information sharing.
• Provides clinical instructions for new physicians and fellows in the area regarding sonographic practices and procedures to ensure the competency of all health care providers. Assists residents in obtaining diagnostic images as necessary. Serves as a resource for new staff as needed.
• Stays abreast of the latest developments, advancements, and trends in Sonography by attending seminars and workshops, reading professional journals, actively participating in professional organizations, and maintaining certification, and integrates this knowledge as appropriate into the job. Responsible for training and supervising assigned students as needed.

Job Accountabilities:

• Maintains a positive working relationship and serves as a resource person for physicians, other sonographers, students, and patients to ensure an efficient flow of patient information.
• Maintains knowledge of applicable rules, regulations, policies, laws, and guidelines that impact the Sonography area. Develops effective internal controls that promote adherence to applicable state/federal laws, and the program requirements of accreditation agencies and federal, state, and private health plans. Seeks advice and guidance as necessary to ensure proper understanding.