Ultrasound Technologist

Description

General Summary:

The Ultrasound Technologist performs diagnostic imaging procedures as prescribed by physician’s order for use in the treatment and diagnosis of disease and/or injury, by operating ultra/sonographic equipment to produce diagnostic images. The Technologist produces ultrasound images of the body while utilizing various ultrasound imaging methods. The Technologist ensures patient’s safety during the course of the procedure. All work is done under the direction and supervision of the Diagnostic Imaging Department Manager. The Technologist demonstrates excellence in customer service during interactions with employees, managers/supervisors, physicians, patients and patient family members, etc. The Technologist is aware of the potential exposure to internal and external hazardous materials, including but not limited to: blood and blood borne pathogens, infectious/communicable diseases, potential physical injury while caring for patients.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Education, Training & Experience (includes licenses or certifications):

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Graduate of an approved Sonography course required.

Licensure / Certification:

• Certification in Sonography required, either ARRT or ARDMS, or obtained within 90 days of hire.
• BLS required.

Experience:

• Minimum one year’s recent experience in a clinical setting required, or recent completion of sonography course training, where part of the training was at KVH.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Reads physician’s orders/notes to understand why and where the imaging examination/procedure is being performed.
• Prepares patient for the diagnostic imaging examination/procedure by establishing personal rapport and gains patient cooperation by reducing anxieties; providing explanations of imaging procedure; answers any questions related to the examination and the reporting of results; provides direction for patient with undressing, as well as gowning for the examination/procedure; may take medical history information as needed; maintains patient confidentiality at all times.
• Prepares patient for ultrasound procedure by positioning patient so that parts of the patient’s body can be appropriately imaged.
• Utilizes ultrasound equipment, adjusts equipment controls for patient habitus and condition to provide for the highest quality examination results.
• Spreads gel onto the part of the patient’s body where the sound waves will need to go, uses transducer/sonographic equipment to study images of organs, tissue, or blood flow inside the patient. Examination may be for various areas of the patient, such as: abdomen, breast, heart, vessels, reproductive organs, etc.; analyzes sonograms and relays finding to the physician.
• Protects patients and imaging staff by adhering to infection-control policies and protocols; following drug protocols in case of reaction to drugs/solutions given to patients such as contrast media; may need to administer first-aid or use emergency cart.
• Maintains production and quality of ultra-sonographic images by following established standards and procedures; making necessary adjustments to achieve appropriate anatomical, pathological, diagnostic information and images.
• May clarify acceptance and understanding of image results obtained on the patient as needed.
• Documents patient care services delivered by charting examination/procedure in the patient and department records/charts; may prepare medical reports as needed and maintains records as required by department policy and practice.
• Ensures operation of Imaging department equipment by completing preventative maintenance requirements, following manufacturer’s instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions with vendors/repair technicians to minimize downtime; calling for repairs as needed; maintaining equipment inventories as needed.
• Maintains Imaging department supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory levels, may assist with placing orders for supplies and verifying receipt of supplies.
• May perform routine clerical duties to ensure efficient operation of the department when not directly performing imaging exams/procedures.
• Maintains a safe and clean working environment at all times and complies with hospital procedures, rules and regulations.
• Complies with federal, state, local legal and professional requirements, regulations, etc. and enforces adherence to requirements and advising management on needed actions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Salary : $45 - $54