Vascular Ultrasound Tech - South Bend, United States - Beacon Health System

Description

Full-time

100 Navarre Place

Radiology Services

Day

Reports to the Practice Manager.

Performs ultrasound scans and procedures requiring independent judgment and a high degree of precision and skill in the application of ultrasound equipment and high frequency ultrasound waves with a focus on vascular procedures and examinations.

Follows protocols and procedures as directed by the Radiologist. Ensures quality patient care is provided. Performs research functions in order to conference with physicians.

MISSION, VALUES and SERVICE GOALS

*MISSION: We deliver outstanding care, inspire health, and connect with heart.
*VALUES: Trust. Respect. Integrity. Compassion.
*SERVICE GOALS: Personally connect. Keep everyone informed. Be on their team.

Performs ultrasound scans including, abdominal, doppler and vascular scans using high frequency ultrasound equipment according to prescribed protocols, policies and procedures while ensuring quality patient care by:

• Obtaining pertinent clinical history necessary for the radiologist to interpret the ultrasound, communicating with referring physicians and other health care personnel and calls in reports as required.
• Explaining the procedure to the patient and/or family as needed.
• Practicing sterile and isolation techniques to prevent contamination.
• Assessing patient condition, reporting to nurse or radiologist as needed, performing CPR, and other supportive emergency procedures.
• Selecting various routine and special ultrasound transducers (sound transmitting crystals) as well as conductive gels and oils for each ultrasound procedure to exhibit the best resolution and minimize allergy or reaction.
• Utilizing digital storage system.

Performs a variety of vascular studies which may include: arterial studies (upper and lower extremities including digits) by:

• Obtaining a clear medical history including detailed information of current symptoms and medication regimen.
• Measuring segmental pulse volume recording (upper and lower extremity, simultaneously).
• Obtaining analog Doppler waveforms of blood flow by placing Doppler probe over designated arterial flow areas of upper and lower extremities.
• Grading and evaluating Doppler signal and pulses by palpation, velocity and listeningand recording findings.
• Measuring segmental blood pressures at ankle, calf, lower thigh, upper thigh and bilateral brachial.
• Calculating ankle brachial index.
• Evaluating findings to determine if patient needs PPG, if so, use protocol.
• Obtaining, simultaneously, PPG tracings of each toe using channel PPG and recording each.
• Measuring blood pressure in each great toe and calculating to-ankle index and mount finding for physician to read.

Performs ultrasound and general assistance during vascular procedures by:

• Maintains sterile field.
• Assists physician as directed.
• Provides ultrasound guidance during vascular procedures.
• Recovers patients post procedure including discharge instructions and follow up appointments.
• Fits patients for compression stockings.

Performs functions to maintain daily operations of the clinic by:

• Maintaining proper inventory and condition of ultrasound and office supplies and equipment.
• Patient scheduling, including procedures may not be required by some departments.
• Insurance verification/inquiries including obtaining prior authorizations may not be required by some departments.
• Preparing reports and maintaining records of services rendered may not be required by some departments.
• Completing other job related duties as assigned.

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Associate complies with the following organizational requirements:

• Attends and participates in department meetings and is accountable for all information shared.
• Completes mandatory education, annual competencies and department specific education within established timeframes.
• Completes annual employee health requirements within established timeframes.
• Maintains license/certification, registration in good standing throughout fiscal year.
• Direct patient care providers are required to maintain current BCLS (CPR) and other certifications as required by position/department.
• Consistently utilizes appropriate universal precautions, protective equipment, and ergonomic techniques to protect patient and self.
• Adheres to regulatory agency requirements, survey process and compliance.
• Complies with established organization and department policies.
• Available to work overtime in addition to working additional or other shifts and schedules when required.

Commitment to Beacon's six-point Operating System, referred to as The Beacon Way:

• Leverage innovation everywhere.
• Cultivate human talent.
• Embrace performance improvement.
• Build greatness through accountability.
• Use information to improve and advance.
• Communicate clearly and continuously.

Education and Experience

• The knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated below are normally acquired through graduation from an approved school of radiology technology or an approved ultrasound school, registry with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist or certification by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), certification for ultrasound by the American Institute of Ultrasound Medicine (AIUM) or obtain within the first six months of employment, certification by the Indiana State Board of Health. The Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) credential (from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography) or the Registered Vascular Specialist (RVS) credential (from Cardiovascular Credentialing International) must be obtained within 18 months of employment.

Knowledge & Skills

• Demonstrates analytical skills necessary to evaluate information and records utilizing measurable and verifiable criteria to meet standards
• Demonstrates high level of communication skills necessary to exchange information with families and/or other parties to ensure proper positioning of patients with the least amount of discomfort.
• Requires the ability to understand oral and written instructions stated in radiographic and medical terms.
• Requires well developed interpersonal skills necessary to communicate in a tactful, sincere and professional manner with patients/families, physicians, visitors, and others. Requires proficiency in patient clinical assessment and in the performance of vascular clinical examination/testing.
• Requires the analytical ability/skills necessary to analyze, validate, record and report data to appropriate health care professionals and to obtain and act on quality assurance data.
• Requires the ability to concentrate and pay close attention to detail when positioning patients for procedures, operating diagnostic imaging equipment, etc.
• Requires excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrates the interpersonal skills necessary to interact effectively with patients and to maintain effective working relationships with reading and referring physicians and associates.

Working Conditions

• Clinic environment requiring physical exertion.

Physical Demands

• Requires the physical ability and stamina (i.e. to walk/stand for prolonged periods of time, push carts/wheelchairs up to 50 pounds, to position/lift patients at a maximum of 35 pounds unassisted, over 35 pounds requires assistance, provide CPR, etc.) to perform the essential functions of the position.