Cardiovascular Sonographer Specialist - Ochsner Kenner

Diagnostic Ultrasound Sonographer

This job performs various diagnostic ultrasound examinations under the direction of a radiologist. Compiles history and diagnostic information from the ultrasound examination. Presents the radiologist with preliminary sonographic findings.

Education

Required - High school diploma or equivalent.

Work Experience

Required - 5 years of experience as a dual-registered (RDMS, RVT) sonographer.

Certifications

Required - RDMS and RVT certified under the guidelines of The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers in the areas of abdominal, OB-Gyn and vascular ultrasound.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Proficiency in using computers, software, and web-based applications.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to present information clearly and professionally.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work efficiently and calmly under pressure.
• Knowledge of the anatomy of the liver, gallbladder, aorta, spleen, kidneys, bile ducts, and pancreas and ability to perform abdominal ultrasound.
• Knowledge of pathology of these organs and ability to provide radiologists with a preliminary diagnosis.
• Knowledge of the anatomy and pathology of the uterus, ovaries, and the fetus in utero in order to perform pelvic, transvaginal, and obstetrical ultrasound.
• Ability to obtain pertinent fetal measurements (BPD, HC, AC, and FL) and estimate fetal age by these measurements.
• Knowledge of breast and small parts (thyroid and testicular) anatomy and pathology.
• Knowledge of vascular anatomy, Doppler physics, and the hemodynamics of blood flow in relation to the carotid arteries, venous upper and lower extremities, arterial upper and lower extremities and abdominal (liver, kidney, pancreas, spleen, and mesenteric) vasculature.
• Knowledge of preliminary diagnose stenosis or occlusion based on nationally published criteria.
• Ability to be self directed and function without direct supervision.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule such as nights, weekends, extended shifts, etc.

Job Duties

• Performs ultrasound procedures.
• Greets and identifies patients.
• Maintains equipment and assures quality.
• Accurately enters data into computer systems.
• Conducts professional development and maintains required clinical knowledge, technical skills, training and credentials.
• Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of services or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions and communication style.
• Performs other related duties as required.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time.

Remains knowledgeable on current federal, state and local laws, accreditation standards or regulatory agency requirements that apply to the assigned area of responsibility and ensures compliance with all such laws, regulations and standards.

This employer maintains and complies with its Compliance & Privacy Program and Standards of Conduct, including the immediate reporting of any known or suspected unethical or questionable behaviors or conduct; patient/employee safety, patient privacy, and/or other compliance-related concerns.

The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Physical and Environmental Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Very Heavy Work - Exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Heavy Work. (Constantly: activity or condition exists 2/3 or more of the time) to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) when it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg controls; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible. NOTE: The constant stress and strain of maintaining a production rate pace, especially in an industrial setting, can be and is physically demanding of a worker even though the amount of force exerted is negligible.

Duties performed routinely require exposure to blood, body fluid and tissue.

The incumbent works in a patient care area; works in an area where patients enter; works directly with patients; and/or works with specimens that could contain communicable diseases. There may be an occupational risk for exposure to communicable diseases.

Because the incumbent works within a healthcare setting, there may be occupational risk for exposure to hazardous medications or hazardous waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning and/or disposal of contaminated waste. The risk level of exposure may increase depending on the essential job duties of the role.