Sonographer

GENERAL DESCRIPTION The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer is selected by and reports to the Medical Support Services Supervisor. The Sonographer utilizes high frequency sound waves and other diagnostic techniques for medical diagnosis. The professional level of this health care service requires highly skilled and competent individuals who function as an independent contractor at the health care center. The Sonographer must be able to produce and evaluate ultrasound images and related data that are used by physicians to render a medical diagnosis. The Sonographer must acquire and maintain specialized technical skills and medical knowledge to rend quality patient care. He also adheres to federal and state guidelines. The Medical Sonographer functions as a member of a collaborative health care team to create and maintain a Patient Centered Medical Home where emphasis is on excellent communication; support of the patient is provided and tracked in a culturally competent, behaviorally enhanced setting supported by information technology. Due to the nature of NHHC services, you may be required extended hours of other variation of the regularly scheduled hours in order to better serve our community. CRITICAL JOB ELEMENTS/PERFORMANCE STANDARDS I. Must be professional in dealing with patients and the public via personal and telephone contacts. Demonstrate positive attitude towards patients with good eye contact, pleasant voice, attentive and responsive to their needs. II. Provides and performs diagnostic ob/gyn, abdomen, breast, soft tissue, and superficial structures sonographic examinations following the guidelines of the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). III. Follows the Guidelines for Equipment Operations and Documentation. 1. Operates convex, linear, and endovaginal transducers required for specific sonographic examinations. 2. Has knowledge of hi-tech equipment and operation of such equipment 3. Provides adequate documentation of the study a. Incorporates measurement parameters and anatomical findings, procedures, and assesses and evaluates sonographic images and related data into a summary report that is used by physicians to render a medical diagnosis. b. Appropriately labels images with exam date, patient information identification and image orientation. c. Keeps daily logs of all exams done. IV. Practices knowledge of Biological Safety Procedures. 1. Must perform sonographic examinations only for necessary medical reasons as directed by the Centers physicians. V. Implements knowledge of Maintenance of Equipment. 1. Uses correct application/procedures for cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilization of transducers. 2. Uses proper application of protective sheaths for transducers, either in sterile or non-sterile settings. 3. Must report any equipment malfunction or maintenance when needed. 4. Must maintain an inventory of supplies. VI. Quality Assurance for optimal sonographic equipment function shall be provided by the vendor on a yearly basis. A log with proper documentation of every check up must be maintained. VII. Gain and Understand Knowledge of PCMH model, PCMH principles, policies and procedures. VIII. Maintains the standard of patient care by following job duties and responsibilities within scope of practice and in accordance with regulatory agencies, licensure, PCMH, and according to NHHC needs. IX. Meets the continuing educational requirements as needed by the professional accrediting agency to meet license and/or maintain competence. X. Maintains confidentiality at all times in accordance with HIPAA regulations and NHHC policies. XI. In conjunction with the Medical Support Services Supervisor will recommend the upgrade or purchasing of new equipment. XII. Informs the referring physician of the sonographic findings promptly (only when required ASAP / before the Radiologists official reading). XIII. The Sonographer mus follow a systematic process to: Communicate with staff, with other departments, with regulatory agencies, and with outside entities to assure that patients have a pleasant and satisfactory experience in the manner in which their health care is delivered, managed and coordinated, while the patient participates in the decision-making. Must communicate and document problems that occur with patients, providers and other departments. XIV. Works closely with supervisor, providers, and staff to productively serve the patient and general public, maximize patient care and to assure that patients receive the services needed. XV. Must respect the Patients Rights and Responsibilities established within the clinic. XVI. Must greet patients, customers, and general public in a courteous manner. XVII. Must enhance Customer Satisfaction daily. XVIII. Must abide by dress code policy in order to maintain a professional and neat appearance. (For Details refer dress code policy in Employee Handbook). XIX. It is mandatory that the employee actively participate in Performance Improvement Projects aimed at improving patient care, outcomes, and efficiency. XX. Must abide by the Regulations, Protocols, Safety and Personnel Policies as indicated in the NHHC Employee Handbook and the NHHC Code of Conduct. JOB SPECIFICATIONS Experience: A minimum of A.A.S. Degree from an accredited Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is Required. Candidate must hold OB/GYN, Abdomen, Breast, and Superficial Structures certification by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Experience of at least 3 years in the specified fields is a must. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Requires prolonged sitting, frequent standing, bending, stooping, and occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds. Requires ability to work under stressful conditions and irregular hours. Ability to communicate in English and Spanish. Ability to maintain a mature attitude when handling disruptive situations and time demands. CPR-BLS certification must be kept current. Displays professionalism and concern towards patients and the general public in person or by phone.