Cardiac Sonographer - Colonial Square - Days

The practice of ultrasonography is performed by an ultrasound technologist responsible for the administration of high‑frequency sound waves and other diagnostic techniques to humans of all ages, from newborn to geriatric, for medical purposes. A sonographer performs ultrasonography procedures, producing images that the licensed independent practitioner interprets. The role requires integration of scientific knowledge, technical skills, patient interaction, and compassionate care to provide diagnostic information. Sonographers must demonstrate an understanding of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical terminology. They recognize patient conditions essential for successful completion of procedures, exercise independent professional and ethical judgment, and serve as the primary liaison between patients, licensed independent practitioners, and support staff. They remain sensitive to patients’ physical and emotional needs through effective communication, assessment, monitoring, and care. Participation in quality improvement processes and continuous performance assessment is expected. Critical thinking and independent professional judgment are essential. Continuing education to enhance patient care, public education, knowledge, and technical competence is expected in this role. Scope of Practice Perform diagnostic ultrasound procedures or examinations upon the order of, or for diagnostic interpretation by, a licensed independent practitioner (LIP). Determine ultrasonic frequencies and appropriate transducers for the anatomic area of interest. Maintain records, respecting confidentiality and established policy. Apply principles of patient safety during all aspects of procedures, including assisting and transporting patients. Receive, relay, and document verbal, written, and electronic imaging orders in the patient’s medical record. Corroborate patient’s clinical history with the ordered procedure, ensuring information is documented and available for the LIP. Verify informed consent and assume responsibility for patient needs before, during, and after procedures. Prepare patients for procedures and apply ALARA principles to minimize exposure. Perform venipuncture and establish intravenous access per procedural protocol as applicable. Identify, prepare, and/or administer medications associated with diagnostic imaging procedures as prescribed by a LIP. Evaluate images for technical quality, ensuring proper identification is recorded. Identify and manage emergency situations until appropriate emergency services or medical teams arrive. Provide patient education related to imaging procedures. Mentor students and other learners in the environment. Participate in and/or perform ongoing quality assurance activities. Essential Job Statements Perform or assist the licensed independent practitioner in completing ultrasound imaging exams with minimal assistance. Conduct imaging exams based on physicians’ written orders, department protocols, and institutional safety standards. Represent the goals, values, and vision of VCU Health System. Ensure adherence to regulatory standards, health system and department policies, procedures, processes, and guidelines applicable to the role. Resolve basic service delivery issues. Patient Population Provide equitable care appropriate to the age of the patients served on the assigned unit. Patient groups include: Infants (1‑12 months) Pediatrics (1‑12 years) Adolescents (13‑17 years) Adults (18‑64 years) Geriatrics (65 years and older) Employment Qualifications Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for Hire: Certification by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (RDCS AE and/or PE) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (RCS or RCCS). Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for Continued Employment: Current certification by RDCS (ARDMS) or RCS or RCCS (CCI); Basic Life Support (BLS for Healthcare Providers). Experience Required: One (1) year of previous work experience as a Cardiac Sonographer Technologist. Experience Preferred: One (1) to three (3) years of previous work experience as a Cardiac Sonographer/Technologist, preferably in an academic medical center environment. Education/Training Required: Graduation from an Allied Health Education program specific to sonography meeting educational requirements for certification, or from a CAAHEP or CMA Accredited Program in cardiac sonography, or from a minimum 2‑year JRC Accredited Program in Cardiac Sonography recognized by the ARRT or JRC‑DMS, or a bachelor’s degree program with at least one certification by RDCS or RCCS. Education/Training Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree in cardiac sonography. Physical Requirements Lifting 20–50 lbs. Prolonged standing, sitting, walking (distance), repetitive motion, prolonged computer interaction. Strong recall, reasoning, problem solving, hearing, speaking clearly, writing legibly, reading, logical thinking. Ability to handle multiple priorities, frequent and intense customer interactions, noisy environment, and frequent change. Mandated EEO Statement: EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran/41 CFR 60‑1.4. #J-18808-Ljbffr Dormont Manufacturing Co