Breast Sonographer, Mammography, Full-Time, Days

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare • Chicago, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Breast Sonographer at Northwestern Medicine performs diagnostic ultrasound procedures according to department standards and protocols, adhering to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program. This role is integral to cultivating a positive workplace and providing patient-first care, ensuring services are delivered with full respect for the dignity of the patient. The sonographer is responsible for producing high-quality diagnostic images while minimizing patient exposure, reviewing patient history, and determining appropriate examination protocols. They operate ultrasound equipment, observe and communicate clinical findings, and provide patient care and education throughout procedures. The position also involves preparing examination rooms, maintaining infection control, assisting with patient positioning, and accurately documenting and reporting examination results. The sonographer supports departmental quality improvement and maintains required competencies and certifications.

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited Ultrasound Sonography Program
• American Registry for Diagnostic Sonographer (ARDMS) Breast Ultrasound (BS)
• Basic Life Support (BLS)

Responsibilities

• Perform breast ultrasound examinations using accepted standards of practice; select appropriate imaging parameters to produce high-quality diagnostic images while minimizing patient exposure.
• Review patient history and physician orders; evaluate imaging requests and determine appropriate examination protocols and techniques.
• Operate ultrasound equipment, transducers, and accessories to ensure accurate positioning, exposure, and image quality assurance.
• Observe, assess, analyze, and communicate pertinent clinical findings to support physician diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Assess patients and provide care throughout procedures in accordance with department, hospital, and age-specific patient care standards.
• Educate patients before, during, and after examinations using verbal and/or written materials to reduce anxiety and promote comfort and cooperation.
• Perform patient introductions and ensure accurate patient identification using established protocols.
• Exercise professional judgment, discretion, and accountability while acting in the patient’s best interest.
• Monitor patient condition continuously during procedures and report changes or concerns to the physician.
• Prepare patients, examination rooms, equipment, supplies, and sterile trays, including procedure-specific accessories, medications, guide wires, catheters, and ancillary equipment.
• Maintain strict adherence to infection control policies, sterile technique guidelines, and safety standards.
• Assist with patient positioning, lifting, and transport to and from imaging areas as needed.
• Adapt imaging techniques or repeat procedures when necessary to ensure diagnostic accuracy, with radiologist approval.
• Accurately document, transmit, and report examination results; ensure correct charging, complete patient records, and image transmission to PACS using appropriate accession numbers.
• Perform required quality control procedures on ultrasound equipment and report equipment malfunctions or deficiencies promptly.
• Monitor and maintain supply inventory; reorder supplies, rotate dated items, and maintain a clean, organized work environment.
• Support departmental quality improvement and process improvement initiatives through data collection and analysis.
• Maintain required competencies, certifications, and continuing education.
• Ensure continuity of care through effective communication with physicians and interdisciplinary teams.
• Perform related duties as assigned in support of departmental and organizational goals.

Benefits

• competitive benefits
• tuition reimbursement
• loan forgiveness
• 401(k) matching
• lifecycle benefits
• a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees