Performs complex diagnostic procedures and echocardiographic tests including M-Mode, 2-dimensional, cardiac doppler, and color flow studies to assess the cardiac, as well as the circulatory functions of the body. Assists with orientation and training of new staff. Carries out emergency procedures within authorized limitations. Maintains required records and files. Adheres to all principles of patient identification, universal precautions, and universal protocol. Maintains all required elements of ICAEL accreditation for technical protocol and quality assurance for the lab.
Essential Job Functions And Responsibilities
Performs complex diagnostic procedures to assess cardiac and circulatory functions.
- Receives order for designated procedures. Obtains required pertinent information including patient history, medications, and clinical indication for test in accordance to established appropriate use criteria guidelines.
- Performs transthoracic and trans esophageal echocardiograms, stress echo’s, and studies that include the use of agitated saline injections and contrast administration to optimize imaging quality for the interpreting Cardiologist.
- Adheres to all technical components for performing adult TTE’s in accordance with established ICAEL standards.
- Adheres to all technical components for performing an adult TEE in accordance with established ICAEL standards.
- Adheres to established protocol for probe disinfection, storage, and maintenance.
- Adheres to all technical components of performing and acquiring images for patients undergoing a stress echo in accordance with established ICAEL standards. Observes patient through the duration of this stress test. Collaborates with team and provider conducting the stress test. Responsible for the test explanation and adequate skin prepping and electrode placement pre-exam.
- Adherence to the established protocol for the ordering and administration of all contrast agents.
Maintains communication.
- Explains procedures to be performed to each patient. Gives preparatory instructions. Provides reassurance to anxious patients.
- Collaborates with Cardiology RN and all technologists to optimize patient throughput and safety.
- Communicates any delays to patients and the care team.
- Adheres to established critical result policies.
Performs quality controls.
- Periodically tests and checks instruments to assure proper working order.
- Facilitates preventative maintenance with the Biomedical Engineering team and supervisor.
Ability to recognize device and/or server malfunction and communicates issues to Biomedical Engineering and supervisor.
- Collaborates with system administrator on device and server upgrades and maintenance.
Provides Proper Record Keeping And Required Document
- Maintains daily log manuals of patients and tests performed.
- Participates in quality assurance data for sonographers and Cardiologists.
- Annual record of AUC for 30 consecutive patients in the lab.
Performs related duties.
- Acknowledges and documents in patient’s EHR in accordance to established protocol.
- Maintains equipment and work areas in clean and orderly condition.
- As required, transports patients on stretchers or wheelchairs to and from examining room and other areas.
- Initiates emergency procedures within authorized limits, as required.
- Assists clerical support staff with scheduling, record keeping and related duties.
- Maintains adequate supplies and equipment for test.
- (+) Assists with training and orientation of new employees.
- Participates in quarterly Echo conferences and in-services.
- Maintains appropriate CME’s for certification
- Attends 66% of staff meetings.
Educational / Minimum Requirements
Associate’s Degree or greater in the health sciences and/or completion of an accredited course of study in Cardiac Sonographer. Registered by either ARDMS, or CCI. One to two years previous experience in related field or graduate of an accredited course of study in Echosonography.
State/Federal Mandated Licensure Or Certification Requirements
Registered Technologist through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. (ARDMS) and Advanced registry in Echocardiography or Certification from the Cardiovascular Credentialing International, (CCI)
Bristol Hospital Mandated Educational Requirements
General orientation at time of hire. Fire/Safety/Infection Control annually. Other programs as mandated by Hospital.
Special Requirements
Knowledge of Ultrasound techniques/Physics, 2D, M-Mode, Color & Spectral Doppler.
Physical Requirements
Extended standing and walking, together with occasional bending, reaching, stooping and heavy lifting.
Work Environment
Crowded work area, exposure to patient elements. May include customer contact and telephone use.
Cognitive Requirements
Good oral and written communication skills.
Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.
