Cardiac sonographer

Occupational Summary

Performs 2-D, M-mode, color flow mapping and cardiac Doppler echocardiography in the adult and geriatric patient population. Must be able to assist the cardiologist in transesophageal echo and perform stress echo procedures. Will be responsible for maintaining performance improvement documentation in cardiac ultrasound in accordance with IAC (Intersocietal Accreditation Commission).

Primary Duties And Responsibilities

• Collects pertinent medical information to identify reason for examination and potential contradictions. Verifies written order and follows protocol perform correct procedure and properly assign reading MD.
• Accurately explains cardiac procedure to patient and/or family members.
• Demonstrates proficiency in performing all cardiac ultrasound and echo procedures to include all required elements and images based on patient anatomy. Follows departmental standardized protocol for elements to be included in the technician report prior to submission to the MD to read.
• Prioritizes workload appropriately as evidenced by immediate attention to those with actual or potential urgency
• Recognizes and reports conditions that affect or compromise technical aspects of the test/procedure
• Practices infection prevention precautions consistently with a particular emphasis on proper hand hygiene. Maintains a safe and comfortable environment for the patient.
• Accurately inputs data in computer to charge/credit patient generated charges.
• Participates in performance improvement activities as assigned. Complies with patient care/documentation practices.
• Maintains records for IAC accreditation requirements
• Assures patient comfort pre, intra, and post procedure. Assist patient with ambulation and positioning as needed
• Assists in maintaining sufficient supplies and operable equipment within the department
• Responsible for maintaining and stocking supplies; keeps procedure rooms clean and in order
• Assures all equipment is maintained and in working order
• Performs minor maintenance and repairs on ultrasound equipment. Refers major problems to the Manager and Biomedical Engineering as appropriate
• Practices proper safety techniques in accordance with Universal Precautions. Immediately reports any mechanical or electrical equipment malfunctions, unsafe conditions or employee/patient/visitor injury-accident to Manager.
• Proficient in stress echocardiography testing such as treadmill, pharmacological studies for ischemia and stenosis.
• Can assist with transesophageal echo imaging for structural heart assessments.
• Ensures all TEE probes are processed and cleaned according to High Level Disinfection Protocol
• Understands sterile techniques with regard to their role in assisting in cath lab procedures.
• Can perform advanced cardiac imaging techniques to for procedures such as as pericardiocentesis, strain imaging, 3D imaging for structural heart procedures, assessment of Impella devices, left ventricular assist devices, trans-catheter valvular repairs, ECMO, and contrast perfusion testing.
• Provides professional guidance and acts as a preceptor for students in training, new hires and level one echo sonographers