Sonographer

Essential Duties & Responsibilities (including but not limited to): 
1.    Performs diagnostic ultrasound exams according to department protocol of the following examinations: abdominal, gynecological, obstetrical, endovaginal, superficial small parts, vascular, neonatal brain, portable and invasive special procedures.
a.    Uses the ultrasound system, instrument controls, keyboard functions, transducers, and laser imagers.
b.    Images of the anatomical structures in the region of interest, utilizing knowledge of gross human and sectional anatomy.  
c.    Recognizes the sonographic appearance of normal and abnormal tissue structures and provides the best image quality for documentation.
d.    Knows physiology, pathology, and pathophysiology to:
i.    Obtain and evaluate pertinent patient history and physical findings that may affect the sonographic examination.
ii.    Review image documentation and related data from current and previous examinations to produce a written record summary of technical findings, including relevant interval changes for the interpreting physician's reference.
e.    Evaluates ultrasound images for technical quality, and use sound judgment to adjust instrument controls to optimize image quality.
f.    Recognizes acoustic artifacts and takes appropriate action to reduce or eliminate them from the image.
g.    Minimizes patient exposure to acoustic energy.
h.    Evaluates requisitions for appropriate history and clinical information.
i.    Reports equipment malfunctions and hazards to the supervisor.

2.    Interacts professionally and courteously with patients, co-workers, and medical staff. Assists in training radiology residents in performing ultrasound examinations.

3.    Utilizes time productively and appropriately with respect to patient flow, room use, stocking of supplies, and clerical duties to increase department efficiency.  
a.    Ensures patient wait times are minimized.
b.    Spends more than 90% of time working on productive tasks, without prompting from the supervisor. 

4.    Follows Universal Precaution guidelines with each patient.
a.    Attends yearly "Blood-borne pathogens/OSHA" inservice.
b.    Practices aseptic technique when necessary. 

5.    Produces an accurate computer and written record on each exam. 
a.    Completes Meditech entries 98% of the time. 
b.    Completes requisition/film/film jacket correlation accurately 98% of the time.

6.    Pursues continuing education by attending department and hospital-wide programs, regional seminars, and/or college courses.
a.    Meets ARDMS standards.

7.    Performs various other similar or related duties as required and/or directed by the supervisor.  

Required:  Graduate of an accredited Diagnostic Medical Sonography program

Preferred:   Associates degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Preferred:  Two years of ultrasound experience

Other Skills/Knowledge:
Required:  For safety and quality reasons, must be able to read, write and communicate effectively in English with patients, visitors and fellow members of the hospital team

Required:    Active certification by American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) in the specialty(ies) as appropriate, or registry eligible. If registry eligible, must obtain registration within 12 months of hire date.