Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY:The Echosonographer reports to the Practice Manager of Cardiology and under the direction of a Cardiologist, performs exams at technical level that does not require direct supervision over technical detail. Conducts a variety of Echo exams including Doppler, Transesophageal Echo, Bubble and Contrast exams. Uses independent judgment, ingenuity and acquired knowledge to obtain quality diagnostic images.EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

• Must obtain Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) of Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) certification within one year of hiring and maintain registration by obtaining 30 Continuous Medical Education Credits (CMES) every 24 months.
• Must become certified in Basic Cardiac Life Support within 90 days of hire and maintain clinical competency during employment.

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum education of a high school diploma or GED is required.
• Minimum of 2 years relevant experience preferred.
• Experience in working with and caring for all age groups of patients.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish is desirable, but not required.

COMPETENCIES:

• Complete knowledge of physics, anatomy, medical terminology, sterile technique, and universal precaution as it relates to Echocardiography practice is necessary.
• Excellent interpersonal verbal and written and communications skills with patients from all age groups as well as Nursing Stations, Physicians, and co-workers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:
Disclaimer: Job descriptions are not intended, nor should they be construed to be, exhaustive lists of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. They are intended to be accurate reflections of the principal duties and responsibilities of this position. These responsibilities and competencies listed below may change from time to time. Eastern Connecticut Health Network reserves the right to change or assign other duties and responsibilities to this position * Demonstrates the ability to operate and maintain equipment to department standards. Reports any equipment malfunction to supervisor and/or BioMed.

• Demonstrates competence in performance of echocardiographic studies including but not limited to Doppler, Transesophegal ECHO, Bubble and Contract exams.
• Interpretation, reporting, communication and documentation of exams.
• Demonstrates understanding of cardiac diseases processes in order to obtain complete acquisition of images for clinical diagnosis by the Cardiologist.
• Reports pertinent information or changes of patients condition to Physician, APRN, PA or supervisor.
• Has understanding of acquired images.
• Ensures images are received by PACs system for Cardiologist review.
• Reports findings or concerns to Cardiologist for prompt interpretation.
• Is available to Cardiologist for review and discussion.
• Provides appropriate clinical care to the patient before, during and after to assure the patient\xe2\x80\x99s comfort. Properly prepares and positions patients taking care that IV\xe2\x80\x99s, catheters and oxygen leads, etc., remain intact and are handled with care.
• Exhibits a constant awareness of sterile practice and initiates all procedures using appropriate Infection Control Procedure.
• Manages own patient schedule.
• Works cooperatively to accomplish all tasks as a member of the Team.
• Adheres to established department procedures for storage, administration on billing of contrast material.

Eastern Connecticut Health Network