Perinatal Sonographer - Santa Cruz

JOB SUMMARY

This paragraph summarizes the general nature, level and purpose of the job.

Under the direct supervision of the supervisor/manager and a physician in the department, who is responsible for the use and interpretation of ultrasound procedures, conducts sonographic procedures on assigned patients through the use of ultrasound diagnostic equipment. Does not supplant the physician in the sphere of decision making required to establish a diagnosis, but will assist in gathering sonographic and other medical data necessary to reach a medical diagnosis and decision. Ensures that equipment is constantly functional and ready for immediate use. Maintains records and reports on equipment, procedures performed and billing.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Employees must abide by all Joint Commission Requirements including but not limited to sensitivity to cultural diversity, patient care, patient rights and ethical treatment, safety and security of physical environments, emergency management, teamwork, respect for others, participation in ongoing education and training, communication and adherence to safety and quality programs, sustaining compliance with National Patient Safety Goals, and licensure and health screenings.

Must perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the hospital's policies and procedures, including its Service Standards and its Code of Conduct.

* Documents observations made during the procedure for final interpretation by the physician or other qualified medical professional; obtains pertinent diagnostic images for record documentation when presenting cases.
* Ensures that ultrasound equipment & accessories are maintained and functioning. Reports problems to Lead Tech and supervisor.
* Explains examination process to the patient and instructs and assists patient throughout the procedure.
* Operates diagnostic ultrasound equipment, observes sound wave pattern produced, produces and processes diagnostic images and presents completed sonograms to physician.
* Participates in maintaining records for research cases. Participates as needed in evaluation of new equipment for research or possible future use in department.
* Performs a variety of sonographic procedures utilizing ultrasonic high frequency sound waves to detect abnormalities including masses, abscesses, and stones.
* Performs appropriate infection prevention techniques including CIDEX testing, neutralization disposal. Performs proper probe handling & cleaning according to procedures if necessary.
* Performs Doppler scans, i.e.: Umbilical artery and vein, MCA, ductus venosus and uterine vessels Doppler within allotted time frames; Spot check exams consistently show understanding and demonstration of proper doppler technique and documentation of doppler information, color and doppler spectral imaging, color & spectral scale setting at a velocity that demonstrates psv after flow direction and angle correction displayed appropriate to vessel.
* Reviews patient medical history in chart information system. Reloads prior exams for comparison. Utilizes ancillary equipment appropriately (KinetDx, PACS- Picture Archiving and Communication systems).
* Spots check exams for required views and adequate demonstration of anatomy. Completes exam within required timeframe.