Cardiac Sonographer - Jasper, United States - Memorial Hospital and Health Care

Description

Job Description

Job Summary

Perform diagnostic tests and procedures in the Cardiac/Vascular Lab excluding rehabilitation exercise programs. Able to provide full realm of the vascular and cardiac sonography procedures. Functions within this Cardiac Lab are inclusive of modalities involving stress testing, performance of EKGs and event monitor/holter placements. Actively involved in the mentoring and education of staff new to sonography and Cardiac Lab. Utilizes critical thinking skills attained during the preparation stage /review of the CCI/ARDMS protocols and procedures. Provides education and support to patients and significant others. Utilizes the education, experience, and special training which has been acquired. Patient is defined as any person from day one to older adult.


Qualifications

Candidates/employees can be qualified for this position through either a cardiology or a radiology ultrasound background.


Education:
A) Technical school and knowledge or experience in the medical field required. A minimum of 2-3 years of cardiac/vascular ultrasound experience preferred. Prefer current registration through ARDMS as an RVT (registered vascular technician) or as a RDCS (registered diagnostic cardiac sonographer). CCI is an alternative.
B) Radiology Ultrasound background - Radiology technician, registered or certified, with additional exposure to cardiovascular ultrasound theory and practice. 2-3 years of ultrasound experience preferred.
Registration for vascular registry is to be pursued within one year of hire.


Training:

Orientation with the Coordinator of CardioVascular Lab to educate on current hospital procedures and protocols related to this Cardiac Lab.

Orientation related to additional modalities such as EKGs, stress testing, etc. is provided by general staff of Cardiac Lab. Ability to utilize critical thinking skills to recognize subtle differences between normal and abnormal sonographic/vascular details. Successful completion of orientation skills checklist. CPR Provider-C required within 30 days of hire date. Completion of ACLS encouraged/required if active in MPI Lab.


Experience:
Knowledge or experience in the medical field required. 2-3 years of ultrasound experience preferred.

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Must have comprehensive knowledge of all cardiac laboratory theories and practice. Must attend in services and continuing education opportunities within and outside of the hospital. Must maintain patient safety, infection control and standard precautions. Must maintain continuing mandatory education hours for department accreditations.


Performance Requirements


Responsibility For:

Performing diagnostic tests and procedures (excluding rehabilitation services) according to provider orders and adherence to the protocols of the Lab.

Maintain accurate and complete records of procedures performed. Adheres to the policies and of the Cardiac Services Department and the hospital. Explains tests and procedures to the patient and/or significant others to alleviate anxiety and provide an environment conducive
to quality testing. Participates in the development and review of policies and procedures related to diagnostic testing. Assist in the education of patients/clients.

Maintains and utilizes supplies in a cost-effective and aware of staffing needs to provide safe patient care and insure fiscal responsibility.

Assists in cleaning the area and maintenance of the machines and other testing equipment. Active participation in the Datastar databases. Active participation in quality improvement and case presentations. Other duties as assigned.


Physical Demands:
Moderate physical effort. Must have manual dexterity and manipulative skills. Ability to see objects in fine detail. Able to hear normal sounds with some background noises. Position requires the ability to concentrate on fine detail with frequent interruptions. Continuous standing, walking, and sitting. Some pushing, pulling and lifting. Awareness of the importance of utilizing proper body mechanics and the special ergonomics involved with scanning. Visual, auditory and speech acuity essential.


Environmental Conditions:
Works in the Cardiac Services area where patient rooms are well-lighted, heated and ventilated. Has some exposure to disagreeable conditions in the hospital.


Hazards:
Many employees come into contact with hazardous health conditions and physical hazards. Utilization of the proper procedures should prevent harm to the employee.


Special Demands:

Reflects the mission, philosophy, core values, and customer service plan of Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center in action and attitude.

Willingness to work with realization that errors may have serious consequences for patients. Uses competency, tact and patience in communicating with patients, families, physicians, and other personnel. Demonstrates initiative and judgment in assessment of techniques and procedures to meet the needs of the patient. May be required to work rotating shifts and a reasonable amount of overtime.