Sonographer Cardiac II

Performs basic to advanced cardiac ultrasound services and procedures for adult and pediatric patients such as transthoracic, congenital, transesophageal and stress.

Performs advanced cardiac ultrasound procedures such as M-mode, 2-D, Doppler and Color Flow Doppler utilizing a variety of equipment and techniques and makes the necessary measurements required for the interpretation to obtain accurate, high quality results (for example, muscle wall thickness, diameter of chambers, volume of chambers, valve areas, blood flow velocity and direction). May assist physicians in the Catheterization and Electrophysiology Labs by performing echocardiograph studies to aid them in proceeding with complex procedures to decrease risk factors.

Identifies and defines cardiac abnormalities and extends the scope of the examination appropriately, deviating from standard techniques when necessary and correlating invasive and noninvasive cardiac diagnostic test results with cardiac anatomy and function.

Prepares patients for procedures and obtains clinical history from the patient including cardiac related physical findings and pertinent laboratory data in order to adapt the imaging techniques to obtain comprehensive and diagnostic echocardiograms to alleviate the probability of erroneous clinical interpretation of the echocardiogram.

Assists in performing transesophageal studies with cardiologist, calculating appropriate measurements and sterilizes probe.

Communicates clinical findings to the appropriate staff.

Records statistics and performs daily maintenance of the Echocardiography Lab and its equipment, reporting all malfunctions as appropriate.

Acts as a resource to other staff, physicians and students regarding equipment, techniques, procedures and studies to optimize patient care.

In conjunction with supervisor, implements protocols as new technology evolves, and ensures system echocardiography standards are implemented and adhered to.

Works closely with medical director to develop and ensure quality processes and protocols are adhered to; works with physicians to perform quarterly reviews, and assists with ICAEL accreditation ensuring all policies, quality processes, reporting, etc. meet standards.

Every Friday and every other Tuesday. Included in call rotation.

Licenses & Certifications

Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS-AE) registration with Adult Echo issued by the ARDMS, or

Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) registration issued by the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), and

Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification issued by the American Heart Association (AHA) needs to be obtained within 6 months unless department leader has determined it is not required.

Degrees

Advanced training beyond High School that includes the completion of an accredited or approved program in Sonography.

Required Functional Experience

Typically requires 2 years of experience in cardiovascular sonography which includes experience in digital quantification.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Advanced knowledge and ability to learn and apply complex sonographic principles, instrumentation and techniques, and new computer techniques for the capture, display and analysis of echocardiograph data. Advanced knowledge and proficiency in cardiovascular sonography procedures such as transesophageal and congenital.Advanced knowledge of cardiac anatomy and physiology. Excellent interpersonal and patient service skills. Intermediate computer skills.