Ultrasound Technologist / Sonographer

The Staff Sonographer functions as a healthcare provider who, working under the delegated authority of the supervising physician, serves as a medical imaging professional providing clinically relevant information to assist the physician with the diagnosis and treatment of patients. Responsibilities include providing diagnostic medical sonography services and its various clinical specialties. The professional level of this health care service requires highly skilled and competent individuals who function as integral members of the health care team. Must be able to produce and evaluate ultrasound images and related data that are used by physicians to render a medical diagnosis. Must acquire and maintain specialized technical skills and medical knowledge to render quality patient care.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Performed majority of the time:

·         Obtains, reviews and brings together pertinent patient history, physical examination, and supporting clinical data to facilitate diagnostic results.

·         Perform the diagnostic medical sonography examination ordered by the supervising physician in accordance with professional and facility protocols. 

·         Apply independent, professional, judgement to ensure a complete exam is obtained and prepare a written and/or verbal preliminary report for the physician.

·         Performs quality control functions in ultrasound in association with department quality control program.

·         Prepare exam room and ultrasound equipment to conduct sonography examinations in accordance with infections disease, sterilization, and patient safety protocols, policies and procedures.

·         Foster a collaborative atmosphere with other members of the healthcare team.

·         Maintains appropriate supply levels and/or assists others.

·         Transports patients as necessary.

·         Communicate with patients in a manner appropriate to the patient’s ability to understand and appropriately explain the examination.

·         Assists in patient scheduling.

·         Willing to work different shifts as needed for the department.

·         Performs after hours exams on call back basis per department protocol and as requested by supervisor.

·         Maintain orderliness and cleanliness of the procedure rooms and surrounding areas.

Performed occasionally but critical to successful performance of the job:

·         Completes required continuing education per ARDMS guidelines.

·         Assists in evaluating new products and equipment.

·         Assists in training and instruction of new sonographers and students.

·         Participates in scheduled staff/department meetings.

·         Helps maintain protocols, procedure and reference manuals.

Decision making and budget responsibilities:

·         Decision impact limited to the employee.

·         No budget responsibility.

Education:

Required

·         N/A

Preferred

·         Graduate of Diagnostic Medical Sonography program (certificate).

·         Associates degree or Bachelor’s degree.

Experience:

Required

·         ARDMS registered candidates without formal training must have two (2) years’ experience in a large hospital.

Preferred

·         Minimum of one (1) year experience in a large hospital.

·         Education and experience that reflects training in caring for all demographics of patients including neonatal, infant, pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients.

Licenses, Certifications and/or Registrations:

Required

·         Must be registered or become registered within 12 months of hire date by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Registries should include Obstetrics and Gynecology or Abdomen boards.

·         Oregon State Board of Medical Imaging licensure in the practice of sonography.

·         American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS required within 90 days of hire.

Preferred

·         N/A

Job Related Skills, Abilities and Behaviors:

Required

·         Excellent customer service skills.

·         Basic Windows and Microsoft office computer application skills.

·         Demonstrates effective written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.

·         Presents a professional image.

·         Ability to deal with multiple demands in a fast-paced hospital setting in a calm and pleasant manner.

·         Uses computer application skills in communicating and analyzing data.

·         Uses all aspects of the electronic medical records appropriately.

·         Uses Radiology information system and PACS accurately.

·         Practices safe work habits and uses required precautions when handling blood and body fluids.

·         Follows policies and procedures regarding high level disinfection of ultrasound transducers..

·         Exhibits a high standard of medical ethics and empathy towards patients.

·         Utilizes feedback from customers in decision-making and looks for ways to improve service.

Preferred

·         Bilingual skills a plus.