Echo Tech

Echocardiography Technologist

The echocardiography department performs a variety of inpatient and outpatient adult echocardiograms. Technologists will perform transthoracic echocardiograms (TTEs) and transesophageal echocardiograms (TEEs). Stress echocardiograms and dobutamine stress echocardiograms are also performed. Technologists are responsible for performing pediatric echocardiograms, although this will be low in volume. Echocardiograms are performed according to IAC standards. Non-invasive tasks include two-dimensional and M-mode echocardiography with color flow Doppler for both adult and pediatric patients. High-quality images must be provided for cardiologist interpretation. Pulsed and continuous wave echo Doppler techniques are utilized. Accurate measurements and calculations of echo and Doppler recordings are essential. The role involves performing stress echoes, including pharmacological studies. Technologists will assist with transesophageal echocardiograms and manage digital archival and retrieval of studies. Injections of echo contrast agents and acquiring corresponding contrast images are required. All requisite documentation must be completed in a timely and accurate manner. Technologists ensure compliance with safety standards. On-call and standby rotations are assigned among the team of technologists. Experience with performing adult TTEs and TEEs is necessary. Preference is given for experience with stress echocardiograms, dobutamine stress echocardiograms, and pediatric echocardiograms. First-time travelers with prior experience performing TTEs are considered. The average number of studies performed is 6-7 exams per 8-hour shift. Electronic medical records and PACS systems are utilized. Department-specific equipment includes Philips imaging machines. There is a lead sonographer who manages daily echo workflows. Weekend calls are shared equitably among technologists. Weekend call coverage extends from the end of the shift on Friday until Monday morning. Holiday requirements and call rotation responsibilities are part of the job expectations. Scrubs are required for this position, but wearing personal scrubs is also allowed. The orientation process typically lasts for one day but may extend as necessary. The echocardiography department operates within a cardiac-focused facility.