Sonographer

Summary: 

Under the supervision of the Radiologist and according to established policies and procedures, operates imaging equipment as required, to obtain diagnostic images according to Radiologist specifications; will assist the Radiologist in procedures as required.

Responsible for coordinating patient flow, operating all systems for routine, specialty, and research studies, supporting protocol development, and performing all duties related to scanning and image processing for their assigned specialty. Consistently follows proper patient screening/care protocols and provides accurate documentation associated with each exam while supporting expedited patient throughput and diagnosis.

Ability to operate ultrasound machine to produce cross-sectional images of patient's body for diagnostic purposes where applicable.  Through the use of independent judgment and initiative is able to perform imaging sequences necessary to reach a medical diagnosis and decision. Must be able to provide professional and quality care while following hospital policies, procedures, and standards. May be responsible for specific areas of instruction in the training of new staff or others in specialty-assigned areas for procedures, protocols, equipment and/or safety issues.

May float to other locations/hospitals in the Baystate Health system to support patient care and staffing needs.

Job Responsibilities: 

1) Demonstrates excellent customer service through positive patient experience; promotes positive inter/intradepartmental communications and relationships; maintains confidentiality.

2)  With guidance and supervision from the lead sonographer, operate ultrasound equipment and adjust controls according to the organ to be examined, depth of field, and other test specifications to obtain medical diagnosis through appropriate acoustical parameters and in accordance with accepted protocols.  Perform technical procedures, which may include one or more of the following: abdominal, OB/GYN, trans-vaginal, trans-rectal, scrotal, thyroid, breast, and vascular.

3)  Maintains knowledge of procedures/protocols and applies knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy, and is able to identify pathology, within the scope of practice to obtain necessary diagnostic information.  Responsible for independent and proficient operation of all assigned imaging equipment in the specialty area to provide the best image outcomes in a proficient and time-sensitive manner.

4)  Properly identifies patient information using two patient identifiers and complies with National Patient Safety Goals standards.  Performs procedures as outlined, including but not limited to routine, specialized, emergency, and urgent imaging procedures.  Responsible for providing accurate, high-quality exams.

5)  Maintains operational communication with Supv/Mgr; shares information and follows through with assigned tasks.

6)  Works as a member of the healthcare team, including physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in diagnostic testing.

7)  Operates and maintains exam room and equipment:  evaluates equipment problems and takes appropriate action to expedite necessary service or repair.  Demonstrates knowledge/understanding in effectively operating all equipment.  Performs quality checks on equipment in accordance with departmental procedures.  Keeps work areas stocked with appropriate supplies.  Keeps all imaging rooms neat and clean.  Ensures supplies in the work area are not damaged or outdated.  Discards waste in appropriate waste containers according to established procedures.

8)  Recognizes examination findings that may require an immediate clinical response, notifies the radiologist (example: critical test results), and verifies the timely transfer of images to the PACS system.

9) Assures ongoing compliance with JC, MQSA, and ACR regulatory and DPH/CMS requirements.  Participates in departmental quality assurance activities.  Supports QC activities in the department.

10)  Performs accurate and high-quality exams to ensure proper technique, positioning, and visualization of the appropriate anatomy requested.  Instruct patients before and during the procedure to maximize the probability of obtaining a complete and accurate result.

11) Maintains standards of skills:  demonstrates/maintains current knowledge/skill in providing appropriate care for all patients potentially served in an imaging service, including pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric.

12) Present self to all patients and other customers in a pleasant, professional, and courteous manner at all times.

13) Attends and participates in in-service meetings and other designated training events that will enhance clinical skills as documented by attendance at meetings/seminars.

14) Reports any suggestions for positive changes or recommendations within departmental policies/procedures to the supervisor.

15) Accurately inputs data, demographics, and information into appropriate modality-specific computer applications and systems. 

16) Assists in the training of technologists, residents, and students when assigned to the same work area according to departmental procedures, where applicable.  Demonstrates a willingness to learn new procedures and accept new responsibilities.

17) Observe strict safety standards in the area of specialty, ensuring the safety of patients, family members, staff, and visitors.  Maintains an environment that is free of hazards.

18) Utilizes time in an effective manner by coordinating patients and procedures to achieve maximum productivity, as observed by the supervisor.

19) Assist the radiologist in a wide range of sterile procedures, as dictated by modality.

20) Has passed RDMS Registry in one specialty.

Education Requirements

GED/HS Diploma

Completion of an accredited program

Preferred Educations

Associate degree – Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Required Work Experience: 

ARDMS Certification

Skills and Competencies: 

1)  Ability to work with computer applications.

2) Demonstrates good verbal and written communication.

3) Able to work independently and be self-motivated.

Education:

High School Diploma (Required)

Certifications:

Basic Life Support - American Heart Association, Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - American Registry for Diagnostic Medical SonographyAmerican Registry for Diagnostic Medical SonographyAmerican Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Compensation

Note: The compensation range(s) in the table below represent the base salaries for all positions at a given grade across the health system. Typically, a new hire can expect a starting salary somewhere in the lower part of the range. Actual salaries may vary by position and will be determined based on the candidate's relevant experience. No employee will be paid below the minimum of the range. Pay ranges are listed as hourly for non-exempt employees and based on assumed full time commitment for exempt employees.

Minimum - Midpoint - Maximum

$43.08 - $54.50 - $70.72

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer