Ultrasound Technologist I

At Houston Methodist, the Ultrasound Technologist I position completes a variety of routine diagnostic ultrasound procedures to include common and special ultrasound exams of moderate complexity. This position provides direct assistance to physicians with all diagnostic and special ultrasound procedures. This Ultrasound Technologist I position delivers exceptional patient care and adheres to ultrasound exam standards and guidelines established by governing agencies to ensure optimal patient safety and customer service. This position is a member of the direct patient care team.

FLSA STATUS

Non-exempt

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Graduate of education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s) indicated below in the Certifications, Licenses and Registrations section.

EXPERIENCE

• None

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Required

• BLS - Basic Life Support or Instructor (AHA) - American Heart Association and
• Must have one of the following certifications: RDMS-OB - Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - OB/GYN (ARDMS); RDMS-AB - Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - Abdomen (ARDMS); RDMS-BR - Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - Breast (ARDMS); ARRT-SON - Radiologic Technologist - Sonography (ARRT); RCS - Registered Cardiac Sonographer (CCI)
• NOTE: If functioning solely as a Breast Ultrasound Tech then either one of the above credentials or American Registry for Diagnostic Sonography (ARDMS- BR), or Breast (BR) credential earned prior to June 30, 2010 will be accepted as referenced in American College of Radiology guidelines; must obtain American Registry for Diagnostic Sonography- Breast (ARDMS- BR) registry by the end of the month following 18 months of hire/transfer date if does not already have

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
• Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
• Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles
• Possesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems to include, Hospital / Radiology Information Systems and Office software to maintain patient and exam documents.
• Exhibits strong interpersonal and team player skills with all levels of the healthcare team and assures delivery of excellent customer service to all patients, visitors, physicians and co-workers.
• Adapts to multiple ongoing priorities with minimal supervision including, organizing work flow and actively participating in problem-solving.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent patient care information and data in a comprehensive manner.
• Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards department goals for retention and employee engagement.
• Communicates effectively with others to facilitate providing the highest quality service during every customer and patient encounter.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs diagnostic ultrasound procedures to include common and special ultrasound exams. Ultrasound exams use high-frequency sound waves to capture images.
• Proactively assesses, identifies and responds to the needs of the patient for adjustment or intervention to optimize patient care, image quality and patient experience. This includes: positioning, physiology, procedure preparation, and technical factors. Modifies technical factors to achieve desired imaging results and recognizes complications and limitations associated with certain procedures.
• Provides direct assistance to physicians during diagnostic or special procedures, including assisting with sterile technique.
• Provides accurate explanations and instructions to patients and family members at an appropriate level utilizing verbal and non-verbal skills, terminology and language.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Follows safety standards and conducts all imaging procedures accordingly. Maintains proper sterile techniques for procedures, regularly practices aseptic techniques, and ensures compliance with infection control procedures. Complies with job role, department and hospital safety standards, practices and policies.
• Reports "near misses" and inputs errors promptly into appropriate hospital patient safety reporting system to improve processes and identify trends. Contributes to identification of corrective actions and improvement activities, and contributes to meeting department and hospital targets for quality and safety.
• Performs daily imaging equipment quality control (QC) ensuring all imaging equipment is in safe working order prior to use. Reports any malfunctions to management and regularly practices preventive maintenance procedures; calls for service if needed.
• Utilizes critical thinking skills to observe and proactively address patient reactions (i.e. medications) or potential outcomes and obtains assistance, as appropriate.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Provides accurate and complete documentation of patient procedures. Enters charges at the time service is delivered.
• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks.

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Participates in department projects or shared governance activities. Assumes responsibility for growth and development by participating in in-services programs and continuing education.
• Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development as a Technologist.

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

WORK ATTIRE

• Uniform: No
• Scrubs: Yes
• Business professional: No
• Other (department approved): Yes

ON-CALLNote that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.

• On Call* Yes

TRAVELTravel specifications may vary by department

• May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area Yes
• May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area Yes

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Graduate of education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s) indicated below in the Certifications, Licenses and Registrations section.

EXPERIENCE

• None

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Required

• BLS - Basic Life Support or Instructor (AHA) - American Heart Association and
• Must have one of the following certifications: RDMS-OB - Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - OB/GYN (ARDMS); RDMS-AB - Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - Abdomen (ARDMS); RDMS-BR - Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - Breast (ARDMS); ARRT-SON - Radiologic Technologist - Sonography (ARRT); RCS - Registered Cardiac Sonographer (CCI)
• NOTE: If functioning solely as a Breast Ultrasound Tech then either one of the above credentials or American Registry for Diagnostic Sonography (ARDMS- BR), or Breast (BR) credential earned prior to June 30, 2010 will be accepted as referenced in American College of Radiology guidelines; must obtain American Registry for Diagnostic Sonography- Breast (ARDMS- BR) registry by the end of the month following 18 months of hire/transfer date if does not already have

Company Profile:

Houston Methodist Hospital is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 1 hospital in Texas and one of America's "Best Hospitals." As a full-service, acute-care hospital located in the Texas Medical Center and the flagship hospital of Houston Methodist, it has evolved into one of the nation's largest nonprofit teaching hospitals and a leader in innovative medical research with a comprehensive residency program. Two of Houston Methodist's primary academic affiliates are among the nation's leading health care organizations: Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian Hospital. Houston Methodist also has affiliations with Texas A&M University and the University of Houston. Houston Methodist Hospital offers unparalleled care for thousands of patients from around the world.

Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.