Ultrasound Technologist

Reporting to the Director of Radiology/Imaging with accountability to the team facilitator and the team, performs ultrasound scans on patients in order to assist physicians in the diagnosis of medical disorders.

• Independently performs diagnostic ultrasound procedures assigned by the team facilitator; operates stationary and portable ultrasound units.
• Explains examination procedure to the patient and responds to patient's questions. Utilizes and promotes AIDET concepts in all customer interactions.
• Assists patient from wheelchair to the examining table; ensures patient privacy by properly covering the patient and pulling the privacy curtain during the procedure.
• Monitors patient's condition frequently while in the Ultrasound area; reports any critical changes in the patient's condition to the Radiologist or nurse.
• Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to assess, treat, and care for all age groups of patients (neonatal through geriatric); implements assessment/treatment/care based on the developmental stages of the patient. Involves family/guardian in plan of care and conducts patient and family education, as appropriate, considering the developmental needs of the patient.
• Retrieves medications that are not controlled substances.
• Enters correct patient demographics into ultrasound unit. Prepares and labels ultrasound films with patient's name and medical record number, date, and technologists initials.
• Maintains equipment and accessories; cleans equipment on a regular basis; reports all broken and malfunctioning equipment to supervisor. Performs quality control on a monthly basis.
• Maintains organization and cleanliness in the Ultrasound area; orders supplies or cleaning service, as needed.
• Assists in the training of technologists and students.
• Shares on-call responsibilities with other technologists.
• Adheres to all Northwest Community Hospital standards, policies, and procedures.
• The level of knowledge normally obtained through an accredited Ultrasound program including clinical training.
• All sonographers must be certified and currently registered as a RDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer), RT(S), RT (VS) (American Registry of Radiologic Technology-Sonography/Vascular Sonography), RVT (Registered Vascular Technologist) or RVS (Registered Vascular Specialist) or registry eligible. If registry eligible, must obtain certification within 24 months of graduation from ultrasound program.
• Knowledge of and/or experience in the correct use of body mechanics.
• Current CPR certification.
• The interpersonal skills necessary to interact effectively with patients who may be anxious or confused and to interact with physicians and other hospital staff.
• The communication skills necessary to interact effectively with patients.
• Ability communicate effectively with the health care team, recognizing the special nature of sonographic examinations and patient needs.
• Ability to work efficiently and cope with urgent and emergent situations.
• The ability to maintain patient confidentiality.