Cardiac Sonographer II

Responsibilities

• Performs advanced cardiac ultrasound procedures such as M-mode, 2-D, Doppler, and Color Flow Doppler using a variety of equipment and techniques, making necessary measurements for interpretation (e.g., muscle wall thickness, chamber diameter, volume, valve areas, blood flow velocity, and direction).
• Assists physicians in the Catheterization and Electrophysiology Labs by performing echocardiograph studies to aid in complex procedures and reduce risk factors.
• Identifies and defines cardiac abnormalities, extending the scope of examinations as needed, and correlates invasive and noninvasive cardiac diagnostic test results with cardiac anatomy and function.
• Prepares patients for procedures, obtains clinical history (including cardiac-related physical findings and pertinent laboratory data), and adapts imaging techniques to ensure comprehensive and diagnostic echocardiograms.
• Assists in performing transesophageal studies with a cardiologist, calculates appropriate measurements, and sterilizes probes.
• Communicates clinical findings to appropriate staff.
• Records statistics and performs daily maintenance of the Echocardiography Lab and its equipment, reporting malfunctions as needed.
• Acts as a resource for staff, physicians, and students regarding equipment, techniques, procedures, and studies to optimize patient care.
• Implements protocols as new technology evolves, ensuring adherence to system echocardiography standards in conjunction with the supervisor.
• Works closely with the medical director to develop and ensure quality processes and protocols, performs quarterly reviews with physicians, and assists with ICAEL accreditation.
• Demonstrates knowledge and skills necessary to provide age-appropriate care, interpreting patient data to meet specific needs based on growth and development principles.

Requirements

• Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS-AE) registration with Adult Echo issued by the ARDMS, or Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) registration issued by the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).
• Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification issued by the American Heart Association (AHA) must be obtained within 6 months unless exempted by the department leader.
• Advanced training beyond high school, including completion of an accredited or approved program in Sonography.
• Typically requires 2 years of experience in cardiovascular sonography, including experience in digital quantification.

Skills

• Advanced knowledge and ability to apply complex sonographic principles, instrumentation, and techniques, including new computer methods for capturing, displaying, and analyzing echocardiograph data.
• Proficiency in cardiovascular sonography procedures such as transesophageal and congenital studies.
• Advanced knowledge of cardiac anatomy and physiology.
• Excellent interpersonal and patient service skills.
• Intermediate computer skills.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Operates all necessary equipment to perform the job.
• Must be able to sit for 50% and stand/walk for 20% of the workday.
• Lifting requirements:
  • Lift up to 50 lbs. from floor to waist.
  • Lift up to 20 lbs. overhead.
  • Carry up to 40 lbs. a reasonable distance.
• Must be able to push/pull with 30 lbs. of force.
• Perform a sliding transfer of 150 lbs. with assistance from a second person.
• Frequently push or pull over 100 lbs.
• Able to use hands and feet to operate equipment.
• Functional speech, vision, and hearing.
• Required to wear protective clothing (e.g., lead aprons, isolation gowns, protective eyewear) as needed.
• Exposure to mechanical, electrical, and chemical hazards.

*Exceptions to the above requirements must be documented through Employee Health. This job description reflects the general nature and level of work expected and is not a comprehensive listing of all duties or responsibilities.