Ultrasound Technologist

DEPARTMENT: ULTRASOUND

JOB TITLE: DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHER

MAIN FUNCTION:

A Diagnostic Medical Sonographer is a qualified professional with academic and clinical experience to provide patient care services using diagnostic ultrasound. The scope of practice of the Diagnostic Medical Sonographer includes those procedures, acts and processes permitted by law, for which the individual has received education and clinical experience, and has demonstrated competency, which is the standard of practice in ultrasound. Reports to the Ultrasound Supervisor and Supervising Radiologist.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

** 1. Is responsible for the effective operation of sonographic equipment and for performing diagnostic examinations. Performs all requested sonographic examinations as ordered by the attending physician utilizing departmental protocol.

** 2. Is responsible for daily operations of the ultrasound department, patient schedule, equipment maintenance, the report of equipment failures, ensures adequate supplies are available, and quality assessment (QA). Coordinates and maintains work schedule with Ultrasound Supervisor and completes billing forms, and performs related clerical duties as required.

** 3. Maintains a high standard of medical ethics at all times and is self-motivated to increase level of understanding and knowledge of the field and new procedures as they evolve. Maintains working knowledge and understanding of anatomy and pathology as related to the field.

** 4. Uses independent judgment to acquire the optimum diagnostic information and accurately differentiate between normal and pathologic findings.

** 5. Analyzes previous imaging, synthesizes sonographic information and medical history, and communicates diagnostic information to the attending physician. Integrates diagnostic sonographic data, laboratory results, patient history and medical records, and adapts sonographic examination as necessary.

** 6. Communicates effectively with the patient and the health care team. Assumes responsibility for the safety, mental, and physical comfort of patients while they are in the sonographer's care, recognizes the special nature of sonographic examinations and patient's needs.

** 7. Assists physicians with invasive procedures using sterile technique as needed.

** 8. Prepares preliminary reports and contacts referring providers when required, according to established procedures.

** 9. Maintains appropriate appearance and hygiene in the work area.

1. Is responsible for maintaining required CME's and for attending all mandatory in-house education programs.

** 11. Employee understands and demonstrates the importance of satisfying the needs of the customer/patient by interacting with him/her in a friendly and caring way, being attentive to the customer's needs, both psychologically and physically, and by taking the initiative to maintain communication with the customer in order to provide a secure and pleasant experience within Arnot Health.

1. Maintains competency in High Level Disinfection of Intercavitary probes following the established policy (7440)

1. Assists in the training process and mentoring of new employees and student interns.

1. It is understood that this job description lists typical duties for the classification and is not to be considered inclusive of all duties which may be assigned. It is also understood that scheduled hours may be adjusted as needed when required due to staffing.

EDUCATION:

Graduate of a formal Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program with eligibility to take ARDMS exam.

REQUIRED LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:

Active certification by American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) in the specialty(ies) as appropriate. Current compliance with Continuing Medical Education (CME) requirements for specialty(ies) as appropriate.

EXPERIENCE:

Minimum one year full time experience.

CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) REQUIREMENTS:

Basic Life Support (BLS) required within 90 days of hire date.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Emotional and physical health sufficient to meet the demands of the position. Strength sufficient to: lift some patients, move heavy equipment on wheels (up to approximately 500 lbs), and to move patients in wheelchairs and stretchers. Ability to maintain prolonged arm positions necessary for scanning.

EXPOSURE CATEGORY:

Category I - Tasks involve exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues.

** A.D.A. Essential Functions