Echocardiography Specialist

Radiology

1.0 FTE, 8 Hour Day Shift

At Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, we believe that exceptional care is rooted in compassionate service. Our commitment to merging innovative technologies with family-oriented healthcare is what sets us apart. We are dedicated to fostering an environment that supports our caregivers through ongoing education and state-of-the-art facilities.

Position Overview

The cardiac sonographer plays a crucial role in the echocardiography department, under the guidance of laboratory leadership. This position is responsible for conducting and acquiring high-quality cardiac ultrasound examinations. The sonographer will assist in more intricate congenital cardiac assessments and work towards mastering the complexities of congenital heart anatomy and physiology. A solid understanding of normal cardiac structure, function, and hemodynamics is essential. The role also involves collaboration with laboratory leaders to ensure that diagnostic imaging meets clinical needs.

Key Responsibilities

The responsibilities outlined below are typical of the work performed in this role. They are not exhaustive and may include additional duties as assigned.

Adherence to all regulatory requirements is expected, including but not limited to cultural sensitivity, patient rights, and ethical treatment.

All duties must be performed in alignment with the hospital's policies and standards, including its Service Standards and Code of Conduct.

• Review patient information and indications for the echocardiogram.
• Conduct and acquire standard cardiac ultrasound studies, assisting with complex congenital assessments.
• Implement appropriate infection control measures.
• Identify patients per protocol, providing a thorough introduction and explanation of the procedure to create a welcoming environment.
• Utilize ultrasound technology to capture diagnostic images across a spectrum of anatomical complexities.
• Present and discuss echocardiographic findings with physicians, obtaining additional images as necessary.
• Perform quantitative evaluations of echocardiographic data according to established protocols.
• Assist in collecting ultrasound and other relevant medical data to aid in accurate diagnosis.
• Complete examinations efficiently.
• Document observations and measurements in the cardiology PACS for physician review.
• Ensure proper archiving of studies on the cardiology PACS network and address technical issues as they arise.
• Support leadership in maintaining ultrasound equipment functionality.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

A combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities is required.

Education: Completion of an accredited cardiac ultrasound program is essential; a bachelor's degree is preferred.

Experience: No prior experience is required.

Licensure: Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) or Pediatric Echocardiography (PE) credential from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) or Registered Congenital Cardiovascular Sonographer (RCCS) credential from Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).

Skills and Competencies

The following skills and competencies are essential for success in this role:

• Ability to exercise sound judgment and make informed decisions.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Capacity to build and maintain relationships with diverse groups.
• Ability to follow both written and verbal instructions.
• Skill in interpreting physician directives and patient medical records to determine the appropriate ultrasound procedure.
• Competence in performing echocardiography across a varied patient demographic.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, and pathology relevant to ultrasound diagnostics.
• Familiarity with computer systems and software used in the field.
• Understanding of PACS principles and electronic imaging systems.
• Knowledge of ultrasound physics and safety protocols.
• Proficiency in ultrasound diagnostic procedures and equipment.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Details regarding the physical requirements and working conditions for this position are available through the Occupational Health Department. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Compensation

Salary is determined based on the role's requirements and level. Factors influencing salary include education, experience, skills, location, and internal equity.

Typically, new hires begin at the minimum to mid-range salary level.

Minimum to Midpoint Range (1.0 FTE): $148,366.40 to $168,282.40

Equal Opportunity Employer

Lucile Packard Children's Hospital is committed to diversity and equal opportunity in all its policies and practices, including employment. We do not discriminate based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or disability. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

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