Ultrasound Technologist

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Performs high quality diagnostic ultrasound exams, accurate operation of equipment and technical factors, producing images for the interpretation by or at the request of a licensed practitioner.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Performs diagnostic ultrasound procedures:
• Provide proper explanation of procedures to patients, their families, and others as needed to insure the patients understanding of the examination to be performed.
• Positions patient to best demonstrate anatomic area of interest, respecting patient ability and comfort.
• Assist the physician in the interpretation of the technical aspects of the completed examination per protocol guidelines.
• Evaluates sonograms for technical quality, ensuring proper identification is recorded.
• When not actively engaged with a scheduled patient, assist other staff members with their duties in the spirit of teamwork in order to maintain an effective and efficient operation.
• Patient records and billing:
• Corroborates patient's clinical history with procedure, ensuring information is documented and available for use by a licensed practitioner.
• Responsible for coding signs and symptoms, diseases, operations, and procedures in accordance to ICD-10-CM and CPT coding principles to ensure Medicare and other insurance coverage. Responsible for obtaining patient waivers when procedures are not deemed as medically necessary.
• Completes all billing charges, notes, and other required paperwork in a timely manner.
• Patient education and service:
• Prepares patient for procedures, providing patient education and instructions to obtain desired results, gain cooperation, and minimize anxiety.
• Interviews patients and reviews available clinical data in order to alert licensed practitioners to possible contradictions for procedure.
• Assumes responsibility for provision of physical and psychological needs of patients during procedures.
• Quality and Safety:
• Participates in the department's quality assessment and improvement plan.
• May be responsible for specific quality control duties in the assigned area.
• Performs daily quality control tests as described by MQSA. Reports and corrects any deviations from the standard for imaging equipment calibrations adjustments.
• Reports equipment malfunction and provides input on equipment and supply decision.
• Practice aseptic techniques and prevent cross-contamination while assisting physicians with procedures.
• Demonstrates competence in utilizing all imaging support equipment to include transducers, multi-format cameras, printers, RIS and PACS system.
• Works with Radiologists and other licensed medical practitioners:
• Verifies informed consent for and assists a licensed practitioner with interventional procedures.
• Assist the physician in the interpretation of the technical aspects of the completed examination.

Minimum Qualifications Education, Experience, and Training

• Must have successfully completed accredited Ultrasound Technology training from an American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) and be registered (or eligible for registry) as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer.
• Must possess the following certifications, based on skill set: Ultrasound Technologist must possess or obtain certification in Physics and either OB/GYN or Abdomen within 24 months post Ultrasound education.
• Previous experience in area of licensure is preferred.
• Ability to learn and navigate computer systems including the online training modules, the employee timesheet and the performance appraisal system. Job specific systems are also required.
• Must be able to read, speak, and write fluent English.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting – Approximately 25% of shift.
• Standing– Approximately 50% of shift.
• Walking – Approximately 25% of shift.
• Lifting – Approximately 35 pounds. Must use, and require staff to use, when in hospital and pre-hospital settings, proper body mechanics and ergonomics and, as applicable, lifting/moving devices.
• Twisting – Infrequent.
• Bending – Moderate.
• Squat/Kneel – Occasionally less than 25% of shift.

Work Environment

• May come in contact with hazardous chemicals or treatment modalities.
• The possibility exists of exposure to communicable disease due to working in a healthcare environment.
• Involvement in patient care may result in unavoidable work-related illnesses.