Sonographer

Are you looking to make a difference by improving the health of our patients?  Here you will find an innovative culture that is patient-focused and dedicated to making a difference.  We are committed to helping the population we serve, and our communities, achieve optimum health and enjoy the best quality of life possible. 

The Sonographer I will be required to conduct multi-specialty diagnostic ultrasound examinations according to departmental procedures and provides high-quality care to patients. This individual works under the direction of the Supervisor of Medical Imaging. The Sonographer I is responsible for the independent operation of sonographic equipment, and for performing and communicating results of diagnostic examinations using sonography. Sonographer I is responsible for daily operations of the sonographic work area, patient schedule, equipment maintenance, the report of equipment failures, and quality assessment (QA). The sonographer maintains a high standard of medical ethics at all times and is self-motivated to increase level of understanding and knowledge of the field, disease, and new procedures as they evolve.

**On-call shifts, which are variable by location may be required, per department staffing protocols. Factors which determine on-call staffing rotations are managed by local Ultrasound leaders. 

• Perform clinical responsibilities for conducting ultrasound exams according to departmental procedures.
• Practices safety precautions to prevent unnecessary injury to patients and associated staff members by providing maintenance of departmental equipment and materials to promote comfort and safety to both patients and staff.
• Ensures patients have appropriate tests ordered with proper examinations performed
• Provide professional example to associate staff members in concern for patients, encourages the need for prompt, courteous service, and the need for good public relations as observed by department supervisor and feedback from staff and patients.
• Assists in training and orientation of new Sonographers as assigned, which is evaluated from the feedback of technical staff and direct observation of supervisor.
• Contributes with implementation of new testing procedures to include demonstration of studies and equipment.
• Participates in the evaluation and training of current staff members, which is measured from technical staff feedback and observation of supervisor.
• Performs all necessary functions regarding financial responsibilities of departmental procedures.
• Effectively fulfills responsibilities to maximize reimbursement for care.
• Assists in maintaining departmental supplies in a cost-effective manner, as observed by supervisor.
• Maintains competent level of knowledge and information regarding profession.
• Attends meetings as required and participates on committees as needed, reviews minutes when unable.
• Obtains continuing education credits as recommended by the ARDMS (10 cme/yr), which is monitored by the staff members ARDMS education transcript/education log.
• Keeps informed of institutional events, policies and relevant developments in vascular technology and diagnostic medical sonography.
• Formulates ideas regarding continuing quality improvement/quality assurance and assists Leadership compliance as monitored by supervisor.
• Assist in space planning and needs of service in conjunction with department supervisor.
• Attends all mandatory education programs & participates in review of written/visual material 100% of time.
• Maintains a thorough understanding and responsibility of departmental relationships.
• Represents a positive image of Bassett Healthcare Network through professional appearance and behavior, as observed by manager. Adheres to Bassett Healthcare Network Social Media and HIPPA guidelines.
• Is receptive to supervisor/associate staff constructive criticism and feedback offered.
• Consults with the radiologists/vascular surgeons and staff members within the departments as observed by supervisor.
• Maintains effective interaction with physicians, nursing staff and technical staff.
• Communicates with patients, their family members & co-workers with courtesy and respect.
• Performs all necessary functions in completing ultrasound/vascular examination.
• Explains and reassures the patient and/or accompanying family member the process and procedure to be performed and the protocol necessary to complete the diagnostic study.
• Documents all necessary anatomy and pathology of study that is consistent with established procedure protocols
• Prepares preliminary impression sheet to accurately represent clinical findings of study, which will assist the interpreting physician in the final dictation of examination report.
• Accurately completes necessary computer-generated reporting and database utilizing EMR, PACS and other programs to assist in reporting and submission of exam billing information.
• Participates in the quality assurance programs and accreditation requirements
• Participates in the collection of quality assurance data as assigned and within the time frame allotted.
• Keeps informed of technical developments through the reading of reference journals and participates in continuing education as identified on continuing education record or ARDMS education transcript.
• Participates in the drafting and review of clinical protocols as assigned within the time frame allotted.
• Performs similar or related duties as requested or directed. 

Education:

• Completion of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) or Vascular Technology education, required

Experience:

• Experience in general ultrasound, vascular or echocardiography, preferred

License/ Certification:

• Sonographer I:
  • ARDMS or RVT registration required within 2 years of hire date
  • Must be registered in one of the following specialties within 2 years:
    • AB (Abdomen)
    • OB (Ob/Gyn)
    • VT (Vascular Technology
    • BR (Breast Ultrasound)

  • BLS Certification required

• Sonographer II: 
  • ARDMS or RVT registration, required 
  • Must be registered in one of the following specialties
    • AB (Abdomen)
    • OB (Ob/Gyn)
    • VT (Vascular Technology
    • BR (Breast Ultrasound)

  • BLS Certification required

• Sonographer III:
  • ARDMS or RVT registration, required
    
  • Must be certified in 3 of the following specialties:
    
    • RDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer) – Abdomen
      
    • RDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer) – Ob/Gyn
      
    • RVT (Registered Vascular Technologist)
      
    • BR (Breast)
  • BLS Certification, required

Skills:

• Communication
• Computer Skills
• Customer Service
• Clinical Skills
• Accuracy
• Technical Skills

Physical Requirements:

• Medium Work - Exerting up to 50 lbs. for force occasionally, and/or up to 20 lbs. of force frequently, and/or up to 10 lbs. of force constantly to move objects.
• Occasional balancing
• Frequent crouching, typing/clerical/dexterity, kneeling, lifting, pulling, pushing, reaching, stooping, talking, walking
• Constant grasping, hearing, repetitive motion, seeing/monitor/computer use, standing, fit testing

Hazards: 

• Frequent bodily fluids/bloodborne exposure and radiation/radiant energy

Working Conditions:

• Occasional odors

Travel:

• Occasional Travel - The job may require travel from time- to-time, but not on a regular basis.

Bassett Healthcare Network’s commitment to our employees includes benefit programs carefully designed with the needs and values of all our employees in mind. Many of the benefits we offer are paid fully or in large part by Bassett. Our generous benefits offerings include:  

• Paid time off, including company holidays, vacation, and sick time
• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• Life insurance and disability protection
• Retirement benefits including an employer match 
• And more!

Specific benefit offerings may vary by location and/or position.