Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

-May be entitled to translation/bilingual, shift or other wage premiums as governed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement. Please refer to the respective collective bargaining agreement for additional information on such wage premiums:

Job Summary

Operates diagnostic ultrasound equipment to produce images of specified areas of the body in accordance with Radiologists instructions, and using knowledge of ultrasound techniques and procedures, anatomical and pathological relationships, and the contour and composition of the body. Makes members/patients and their needs a primary focus of ones actions; develops and sustains productive member/patient relationships. Actively seeks information to understand member/patient circumstances, problems, expectations, and needs. Builds rapport and cooperative relationships with members/patients. Considers how actions or plans will affect members; responds quickly to meet member/patient needs and resolves problems.

Essential Responsibilities

• This position, knows and complies with all Kaiser Permanente quality, safety, and emergency policies and procedures. Demonstrates quality and effectiveness in work habits and clinical practice in every interaction with patients, colleagues, providers, and leadership. Ensures patient safety in the preparation and provisioning of care related to but not limited to medications, procedures, infection prevention, fall prevention, including consistent use of two patient identifiers and procedural time outs. Reports safety hazards, accidents and incidents, and unsafe working conditions promptly.
• Courteously instructs patients regarding preparation for examination; explains procedures to be performed. Positions patients to obtain desired images in accordance with physicians instructions and using knowledge of human anatomy.
• Operates diagnostic ultrasound equipment to produce images of specified areas of the body; monitors images and identifies anatomical structures. Makes necessary adjustments to obtain optimal images. Labels images as appropriate. Operates and maintains image recording equipment.
• Instructs patient, in a courteous manner, regarding imaging procedures. Positions patients and operates imaging equipment following established practice guidelines. Reviews images for accuracy and technical quality according to established standards. Submits images for interpretation by radiologist or designee. Practices ALARA principles.
• Assists with procedures such as interventional procedures, provides patient education; obtains informed consent as needed. Practices sterile techniques and standard precautions.
• Follows established quality assurance/quality control program. monitoring the operating condition of the equipment and accessories. Promptly reports equipment malfunctions to supervisor.
• Follows established quality assurance/quality control program. monitoring the operating condition of the equipment and accessories. Contacts service engineer and promptly reports equipment malfunctions to supervisor.
• Maintains inventory of supplies, according to established levels.
• Communicates clearly, effectively and appropriately both verbally and with written communication. Demonstrates courteous and appropriate telephone skills. Considers the cognitive, physical, emotional and chronological maturation process in delivery of services to patients in the age group served.
• Exercises clinical judgment within scope of practice. May work with students and may be required to work at the reception desk or on the phones to schedule appointments.
• Performs other duties as required. May include assisting in other areas of the department.
• May require working with radiant energy sources, and with biological and/or hazardous materials.