General Summary of Duties:
The Pediatric Cardiac Sonographer performs diagnostic ultrasonic procedures requiring independent judgment, ingenuity, and initiative. Also assists with research/teaching projects as directed.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Other duties may be assigned)
Prepares patients for examination; explains procedures to the patient; performs ultrasonic diagnostic procedures as directed by physicians and maintains privacy during entire procedure.
Correlates the clinical history with test to be performed by carefully reviewing chart and document findings in ascertaining/verifying reason for tests; consults with any referring physician regarding the patient’s previous history and discuss required ultrasonic procedures should questions arise.
Demonstrates proficiency in operating M-Mode and 2D imaging and color, pulsed/continuous wave Doppler
Provides technical assistance for IV contrast for bubble/microcavitation studies and other contrast agent when needed
Cooperates with other clinic staff to perform exercise echoes in an efficient and smooth manner
Participates in reading sessions with the physicians and contributes technical and professional knowledge to diagnostic reports. Communicates with cardiologists when there are STAT/ASAP reports requested and follows up with results to referring physicians
Maintains proficiency in preparing extensive preliminary reports
Stores echo tapes properly and retrieve tape when needed.
Assists in maintaining ultrasound equipment in working order
Maintains ultrasound and non-stress testing rooms
Demonstrates courtesy and helpfulness toward patients, family members and others
Keeps up to date in the field of ultrasonic technology through readings, meetings and symposia when available
Collects required patient information for billing out of town echoes.
Assists with EKG preparation for exercise treadmill and assists during exercise portion with treadmill equipment
Ensures all services rendered are charged.
Maintains current BLS/CPR and assists in emergencies when needed
Reviews next day schedules and charts to assure proper and systematic workload
Minor Responsibilities
Cooperates with co-workers and employees in other departments
Assists in other areas when possible and communicate assistance to supervisor.
Ensures that appearance and personal conduct are professional at all times
Follows OSHA guidelines for employee safety
Performs any other tasks as directed by supervisor
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the education, experience, knowledge, skill, and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education:
Graduate of a certified two-year cardiovascular program with Registry; eligibility to be completed within first year of employment
Experience:
Minimum of one year experience in pediatric echocardiography (2D, M-Mode, conventional and Doppler echoes), to include clinical experience during participation of cardiovascular program
Knowledge:
Knowledge of departmental procedures as outlined in the Echo Accreditation Manual.
Knowledge of basic computer skills
Knowledge of cardiac anatomy, disease processes, physiology, and all proper imaging for 2D/Doppler procedures.
Knowledge of all proper quantification methods for assessment of above description
Knowledge necessary to perform extensive interpretation
Knowledge of ACA policies, procedures and philosophy
Abilities:
Flexibility in working hours to maintain coverage
Ability to work patiently with pediatric patients and their families
Ability to communicate information/instructions to patients
Ability to work to precise and established standards of accuracy
Certificates and Licenses
Registered by American Registry of Diagnostic Sonography or Cardiovascular Credentialing, Inc.
Basic Cardiac Life Support Certification
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Requires full range of body motion, including handling and lifting patients, manual and finger dexterity, and eye-hand coordination
Involves standing and walking
Occasionally lifts and carries items weighing up to 50 pounds
Requires normal visual acuity and hearing
Constant use of computer video screens and keyboard operation
Environmental/Working Conditions
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Possible exposure to communicable diseases
Possible physical strain due to moving patients, equipment, and supplies
Possible exposure to radiation
