Sonographer-PRN

Primary Purpose

Operates ultrasound equipment used to produce quality routine and moderately complex diagnostic scans to ensure optimal patient care and meet department needs. Diagnostic acute care setting, high volume, high acuity.

Education

• Graduation from an accredited sonography program.

Experience

• Sonographers working in Ultrasound must have a minimum of one year of experience in specialty.

Equivalent Education and/or Experience

• Education completed in sonography in another country with current abdomen credential from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists - Sonography (ARRT(S)) and hospital sonography experience.

Certification/Registration/Licensure

• Sonographers working in general Ultrasound (70420) must be registered in ARDMS.
• Sonographers working in high-risk obstetrics or OB/Gyn (60030) ultrasound must be registered in the sub-specialty of OB/Gyn by the ARDMS ((RDMS (OB/Gyn)) as a condition of hire.
• Must have a current Healthcare Provider (BLS LEVEL) CPR course completion card or obtain certification during initial orientation at Parkland 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 and ancillary equipment used in performing ultrasound procedures.
• Must be able to demonstrate knowledge of normal and abnormal anatomy.
• Must be proficient in ultrasound exams in specialty as required for general, OB/Gyn, or mammography.
• Must have effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be able to demonstrate patient centered/patient valued behaviors.

Responsibilities

• Operates ultrasound equipment used to produce routine to moderately complex diagnostic scans to ensure optimal patient care. Determines equipment and supply needs in advance.
• Evaluates and verifies the images meet established imaging protocol quality standards for the subspecialty. Follows department protocols for image acquisition, labeling, documentation, and image presentation in PACS.
• Identifies and distinguishes normal and abnormal anatomy throughout the body, and documents in records to ensure optimal patient care.
• Documents exam data, appropriate technologist notes, and charge capture data in the electronic health record.
• Participates in image review and feedback sessions with physicians, senior technologists, and supervisor. Maintains required quality standards.
• Observes patients during scan to ensure their safety and well-being. Able to assess and respond to urgent and emergent patient events and demonstrates ability to obtain appropriate level of assistance. Follows patient safety guidelines as instructed during orientation and competency training.
• Maintains and performs basic troubleshooting of ultrasound equipment and informs senior technologist or supervisor as needed to ensure maximum availability of operable equipment and inoperable equipment receives service.
• Inspects, cleans, and prepares imaging equipment and exam rooms after each patient to ensure cleanliness of the environment of care and efficiency of patient flow within the area. Follows infection prevention practices and reports any issues to supervisor.
• May access and handle ultrasound contrast media within scope of practice under supervision of senior technologist or supervisor.
• Completes all Occupational Health and education requirements as assigned and meets all deadlines for completion. Maintains all licenses and credentials included in job description as a condition of continued employment.
• Follows departmental and organizational behavioral expectations. Maintains positive working relationships with colleagues and patients to ensure an efficient flow of patient information.