Ultrasound Technologist

Summary: Under the general supervision of the Ultrasound Manager Lead Ultrasound Technologist and following established procedures performs diagnostic procedures to assist the physician in the diagnostic and treatment of illness and injuries by using ultrasound equipment which uses the principles of sonography to produce images giving size and depth of the tissue being studied. All essential functions performed in the position reflect age specific needs of the geriatric adult and pediatric patients. Fosters patient and family centered care and nursing services in accordance with the Lifespan and Rhode Island Hospital mission vision and values with consideration of the life span including all developmental stages as well as cultural patterns Responsibilities: Reviews and/or records pertinent history and supporting clinical data to facilitate optimum diagnostic results. Positions patient and instructs patient regarding the procedure to obtain and affect the desired diagnostic result specified by the physician. Conducts scanning procedures using ultrasound equipment; moves scanner over specified body area adjusts equipment to focus and records anatomical pathophysiological data on film. Assists physician in procedures such as localizations biopsies and aspirations by confirming the location of the cyst using ultrasound equipment marking on the patients body handing instruments and equipment to physician scanning the patient using ultrasound equipment at designated intervals during the procedure while maintaining aseptic conditions taking ultrasound images and cleaning the treatment area upon completion of procedures. Assembles all necessary information and film including own impressions of the case and presents them to the physician for interpretation. Reviews orders for their appropriateness and contacts referring doctor with any questions. Reviews daily procedures and schedules examinations notifies transport service to ensure that patients are transported to the area for examination. Orders picks up and stores supplies required for ultrasound procedures and checks expiration dates for supplies and medications. Maintains ultrasound equipment and work area submitting maintenance requests as necessary. Responsible for cleaning scanning room daily and between patients for optimal infection control. Assumes responsibility for the safety mental and physical comfort of patients while they are in the sonographers care. Assists with the daily operations of the sonographic department including participation in the maintenance of accreditation. Establishes and maintains ethical working relationships and good rapport with all interrelating hospitals referral or commercial agencies. Provides for clinical experience of diagnostic medical sonography students instructing and guiding students through ultrasound procedures. Provides on the job instruction to employees in ultrasound procedures. May provide instruction to individuals outside the department. Perform other work-related duties as assigned. Other information: BASIC KNOWLEDGE: One year of formal training in an accredited School of Ultrasound or four years experience as a diagnostic medical sonographer. Must hold a current CPR certification from AHA BLS for Healthcare Providers. Ability to operate ultrasound equipment lifts and moves patients into correct position. Analytical skills to determine best method of obtaining the desired results. Interpersonal skills to deal effectively with patients who may be under physical and/or emotional stress as well as staff members and physicians. ARDMS certification is required. Demonstrated knowledge and skills necessary to provide care patients with consideration of aging processes human development stages and cultural patterns in each step of the care process. EXPERIENCE: Twelve months training in ultrasonography through accredited ultrasound program or the criteria set forth by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) and eligibility to sit for the board examination. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Generally good with some exposure to radiation but there is little chance of injury when established safety precautions are followed. Frequent standing and lifting and positioning of patients is required. Some visual strain due to working in dimly-lighted rooms and observing viewing screens.