Pediatric Echo Sonographer

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under supervision, performs non-invasive diagnostic tests for congenital cardiovascular diseases in order to support the goal of quality patient care. The Echocardiographer is responsible for preliminary echocardiographic measurements, summarizing diagnostic data and communicating information to manager or requesting physician.  Performs a variety of technical duties in non-traumatic, non-invasive examinations using phono-apexcardiograms, imaging duplex and ultrasound equipment.

Position: Pediatric Echo Sonographer

Department: Star Unit

Schedule: Full Time (36 hours)

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES:

• Performs a variety of technical duties required in non-traumatic, non-invasive examinations using ultrasound equipment.

• Positions patients and operates equipment to produce the most reliable and informative data.

• Explains procedures to patients.

• Evaluates as recording occurs and performs complete analysis.

• Interprets exams and chart graphics as needed and processes results.

• Assists with managing the daily work-flow by performing portable exams.

• Performs advanced technical responsibilities, consistent with level of skills.

• Performs fetal echo examinations.

• Performs stress echo examinations.

• Performs dobutamine echo examinations.

• Places holter monitor/Event monitor for analysis for cardiac arrhythmias or abnormalities.

• Places ambulatory blood pressure monitors and uploads data for analysis

• Performs electrocardiograms and rhythm strips

• Performs and interprets vital signs including height, weight, oxygen saturation, manual heart rate, respiratory rate and manual blood pressure on all extremities.

• Prepares and maintains a record system for patient examination results.

• Provides guidance in performing echocardiograms to fellows, residents and students.

• Provides guidance and direction to medical assistants in the absence of the Manager.

• Maintains department records, reports and files as required.

• Documents status of cardiology equipment that is placed on patient and/or returned for analysis.

• Demonstrates proper body mechanics in all functions as required.

• Keeps the echo room stocked with linen, gel, electrodes etc.

• Conducts interpersonal relationships with patients, visitors, physicians and fellow employees in a courteous, professional and friendly manner.

• Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age groups of adult and geriatric patients regularly served.  Notifies supervisor when patients in age groups not regularly served are present, and seeks assistance from individuals with the knowledge of the specialized needs of such age groups.

• Maintains work area and equipment in condition as required by department standards.

• Maintains appropriate inventory of supplies and orders new supply to prevent shortages.

• Enhances professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in-service meetings and workshops.

• Conforms to hospital standards of conduct so that the best possible customer service and patient care may be provided.

• Utilizes hospital's behavioral standards as the basis for decision-making and to facilitate the hospital’s goals and mission.

• Follows established hospital infection control and safety procedures.

OTHER DUTIES:

• Performs other duties as needed.

(The above statements in this job description are intended to depict the general nature and level of work assigned to the employee(s) in this job.  The above is not intended to represent an exhaustive list of accountable duties and responsibilities required).

JOB REQUIREMNTS

EDUCATION:

• Work requires knowledge of Cardiology, Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Terminology, basic Physics, Biology and Anatomy to perform tests and interpret raw data. Such knowledge is generally acquired through the completion of a two-year program in related field of study (e.g., a cardio sonography technical training program). Requires in-depth knowledge of congenital heart defects and associated syndromes

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED:

• Certification or eligibility for registration with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) in echocardiography is strongly preferred.
• Cardiac Credentialing International (CCI) strongly preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

• Prefer at least one year of experience in pediatric echocardiography and fetal echocardiography (not including as an intern) in a hospital facility.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Work requires good knowledge of congenital heart disease.

• Work requires knowledge of general hospital procedures, sonography equipment as well as proficiency in performing technical work. 

• Work requires the analytical ability to solve problems of limited technical complexity.  Ability to follow standardized methods, guides and procedures in the resolution of such problems.

• Strong interpersonal skills to explain procedures and to allay the apprehension of patients; and to interact effectively with physicians, team members, other hospital staff and patient’s family. 

• Basic computer proficiency inclusive of ability to access, enter, and interpret computerized data/information.

• Must be able to maintain strict confidentiality of all personal/health sensitive information.

• Bilingual or multi-lingual skills (beyond that of English) appropriate to the patient population served is a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans