Echo Tech (Cardiac Sonographer)

Echo Tech (Cardiac Sonographer)

Part-time Schedule: Saturday - Monday 08:00am - 12:00pm

Comp Range: $46.26 - $77.46

The Echo Tech is responsible for performing high-quality diagnostic echocardiographic procedures under the direction of a Cardiologist. This role involves the use of ultrasound equipment to assess cardiac structures and function providing essential information for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular conditions.

Essential Job Functions:

• Perform transthoracic (TTE), transesophageal (TEE), and stress echocardiograms as ordered per protocol, American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) guidelines, and physician orders.
• Operate ultrasound and diagnostic imaging equipment to acquire high-quality cardiac images utilizing contrast agents such as Definity and agitated bubble techniques when appropriate.
• Strong knowledge of cardiac anatomy, pathology, and sonographic principles with the ability to recognize normal and abnormal echocardiographic findings.
• Analyze echocardiographic data and prepare preliminary findings for the interpreting Cardiologist.
• May start and manage intravenous (IV) lines for contract echocardiography when credentialed and trained.
• Collaborate closely with Cardiologist and other healthcare professionals to ensure quality patient care.
• Explain procedures to patients, ensuring comfort and safety throughout the process.
• Review and evaluate images for clarity, completeness, and diagnostic value.
• Maintain accurate patient records, documentation, and reports in the PACS or EMR system.
• Maintain equipment, perform quality control checks, and report malfunctions promptly.
• Comply with infection control, HIPAA, and patient safety standards.
• Stay current with continuing education and new echocardiographic techniques.
• Participate in continuous quality improvement initiative and accreditation processes (IAC Echocardiography).

Qualifications:

• Education: Graduate of a Diagnostic Medical Sonography program with a focus in Cardiac Sonography.
• Licenses/certifications/registrations: Required: Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) through ARDMS or Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) through CCI. BLS certification.
• Experience: Required: 1 year of experience as a Echo Tech. Preferred: 3 years of experience as a Echo Tech. Experience with a range of echocardiographic techniques, including Stress and TEE (preferred).

Physical Requirements:

• The position requires sufficient auditory ability to detect and respond to various sounds, including patient alarms and verbal communication.
• Clear and effective communication is essential, as is the ability to interact with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
• Visual acuity is necessary for observing patient conditions, reading documentation and monitors, and distinguishing colors for clinical purposes, such as identifying medications or safety indicators.
• Tactile perception is also important for assessing physical characteristics such as temperature, size, shape, or texture during patient care.
• Motor coordination is required for reaching, grasping, handling, and performing fine motor tasks necessary for the use of medical equipment and procedures.
• The position also involves occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling when assisting patients or accessing equipment.
• Walking and standing are typically continuous throughout the shift.
• The role requires the ability to lift to 50 pounds independently and involves frequent pushing, pulling, carrying, or repositioning of objects or patients weighing up to 25 pounds.
• There may also be occasional lifting or transferring of individuals weighing over 100 pounds, with the expectation that appropriate lifting techniques, mechanical aids, or team assistance will be used to ensure safety.
• May sit for long periods of time.

Working Conditions:

• This position is performed primarily in an indoor healthcare environment, such as a hospital, clinic, or long-term care facility.
• While the work setting is protected from outdoor weather conditions, it may be subject to variable indoor temperatures.
• The role involves frequent exposure to infectious and contagious diseases, hazardous materials, and medical equipment, with the expectation that all staff follow appropriate safety protocols and utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
• The health care environment can be fast-paced and unpredictable, requiring the ability to respond quickly to changing circumstances, including high-pressure or emergency situations.
• The work setting also involves multiple simultaneous demands and varying levels of noise due to medical equipment, staff activity, and patient needs.