Ultrasonographer

Statement of Purpose:

To perform diagnostic ultrasonic procedures at a technical level to obtain diagnostic information for use by a physician, for the patients of Jones Memorial Hospital. Operates ultrasound equipment, processes image, prepares patient's room, equipment, supplies and medications.


MAJOR TASKS AND DUTIES

The following description of job responsibilities and standards is intended to reflect the major responsibilities and duties of the job but is not intended to describe minor or other responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time.

1. Identifies each patient and reviews each patient's requisition, either hard copy or in computer system, for consistency of examination ordered all demographic information. Translates doctor's orders into appropriate ultrasound procedures to recognize the significance of all structures that are visualized to differentiate artifact from normal or pathological process.
2. Explains nature of test to patient to allay fears and anxiety associated with equipment and procedures to obtain cooperation during the test.
3. Assists the patient in various anatomic positions and adjusts equipment accordingly. Operates ultrasound equipment to obtain ultrasounds of the designated portions of the body.
4. Correlates clinical history and previous imaging with the patient's current exam being performed.
5. Proficient use of Epic, PACS system, Pacs Cube, PowerShare and MyPath, ASOB and ViewPoint.
6. Provides technical assistance and sterile technique for special procedures. Assists the Radiologist/Physician as needed.
7. Keep current in changes of CPT codes and changes in authorizations by insurances to ensure that charges and reimbursement are accurate and are in compliance corporately.
8. Reviews pathology, surgical and obstetric reports to pursue patient's progress and review the accuracy of ultrasonic exams.
9. Reviews each examination for technical accuracy, completes the appropriate exam worksheet, presents completed examination to radiologist, and communicates pertinent data to persons responsible for the care of the patient following the procedure.
10. The Ultrasonographer demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patient.
11. The Ultrasonographer possesses the ability to assess the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his or her age-specific needs as per department policies and procedures.
12. Develops and/or supervises the analysis of patient information and interpretation of data to provide an appropriate plan and intervention specific for age related needs and provision of care.
13. Performs "receptionist duties" and "transporter" responsibilities as required.
14. Continually works toward ACR accreditation.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Arrives for work on time and as scheduled.
2. Able to work 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shift.
3. Able to work double shifts.
4. Able to work overtime as needed as well as on-call/back up call duty.
5. Will report to Jones Memorial Hospital within 30 minutes or less from time you receive call for on-call/back up call duty.
6. Understands that schedules are subject to change with limited notice to meet the demands of the patients, the department, and the hospital.
7. Promotes a positive learning environment acting as a professional role model and mentor to all ultrasound students that Jones Memorial Hospital may host.
8. Performs other duties as requested within the scope of applicable licensure, abilities and policies.
9. Is knowledgeable and practices safety using infection control, universal precaution and safety protocols. Uses appropriate universal precautions, infection control practices, along with proper lifting and transfer techniques to promote patient and employee safety.

EDUCATION : High School diploma or equivalency. Possession of a license and current registration as a Radiologic Technologist, RN or LPN, issued by the NYS Department of Health, or equivalent college credits in a medically-related field with strong Anatomy and Physiology background, plus additional and specific training in Ultrasound Technology, either through on-the-job training or enrollment in a specific training program for at least nine months. Need to become registered in within one year of hire date. Maintains professional licensures and CE credits. Current BLS/CPR certification is preferred.

EXPERIENCE : At least one year experience in a clinical setting consisting of internship and/or on the job. Registered or register eligible ARDMS, AB and OB required. Cross training in vascular and/or Echo available.

CONTACTS : Frequent contact with patients and departmental personnel.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS : Ability to lift 50 pounds without assistance, reach stoop, and bend while maintaining good mechanical body position. Ability to wear protective lead aprons and lead gloves during examinations. Hearing and visual acuity sufficient to perform examinations, observe patients, read monitors, document and hear equipment alarms. Stands most of the day, regularly handles light to heavy weights.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Normal. Intermittent exposure to unpleasant physical conditions. Call required. Exposure to blood, body tissues, or fluids. Walking and standing 90 percent of the time. Office environment 10 percent of the time