Cardiac Sonographer, Royal Columbian Hospital

Fraser Health•New Westminster, BC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Royal Columbian Hospital is undergoing a significant redevelopment project to expand its capacity, beds, and services. This role is part of that exciting initiative. New Westminster offers a vibrant community with waterfront views and central access to the Greater Vancouver region. Fraser Health is committed to providing comprehensive, employer-paid benefits, generous vacation time, benefit portability, immediate pension enrollment, maternity top-up, and a TransLink pass subsidy. Eligibility for these benefits is based on employment status. This role practices in accordance with professional standards and a client and family-centered care model, aligning with the vision and values of the department within Fraser Health. The Cardiac Sonographer performs standard cardiac ultrasound procedures, including cardiac studies and measurements, and provides preliminary assessments for review by a Radiologist/Cardiologist. Duties involve managing requisitions, data entry into the radiology information system, patient preparation, operating echocardiography equipment, processing and archiving data, patient monitoring during procedures, and monitoring equipment performance. The role also includes providing information and education to patients and staff regarding procedures and consent, and potentially performing venipuncture for contrast media injections under direction.

Requirements

Graduation from a recognized training program in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography.
Certified with Sonography Canada or the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS); or certified with Sonography Canada and have passed the Sonography Canada Skills Assessment (CCSA).
Completion of Intravenous Therapy training course or applicable experience working in IV Therapy; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
Demonstrated knowledge of theory and practice for Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography.
Demonstrated ability to perform sonographic examinations in compliance with departmental standards.
Demonstrated knowledge of aseptic techniques.
Demonstrated knowledge of organization policies, procedures and standards of care, including practice of safe work procedures with modality equipment.
Demonstrated ability to communicate (orally and in writing) and deal effectively with clients and their families, co-workers, physicians, other health care staff, and staff of external agencies.
Demonstrated ability to teach in a one-to-one and group setting.
Demonstrated knowledge of evidence-based practice related to designated modalities.
Demonstrated ability to operate related equipment.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and in collaboration with others.
Demonstrated ability to establish workload priorities in collaboration with others.
Demonstrated knowledge of research process and methodology.
Demonstrated ability to deal with and/or guide others in resolution of conflict issues.
Demonstrated ability in CPR techniques.
Demonstrated computer skills including the ability to effectively use a computerized client care information system.
Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.

Responsibilities

Receives and prepares patients for testing by reviewing case history, correlating clinical history with the examination, positioning the patient, and explaining procedures. Assesses the nature of the issue to determine the testing process and answers patient questions.
Performs cardiac studies (2D, M-mode, Doppler) by setting equipment for accurate images. Obtains and records cardiac ultrasound views and measurements according to departmental standards, including heart chamber and wall thickness measurements, hemodynamic/velocity measurements across valves, and Doppler waveform measurements. May perform venipuncture for contrast media injections as directed.
Monitors patients during procedures, observing and responding to potential contrast media reactions or emergencies according to facility policies.
Reviews and records pertinent patient history and supportive clinical data.
Provides a preliminary assessment for review and interpretation by the Radiologist/Cardiologist by recording scan information on a department-specific worksheet. Identifies and reports non-normal conditions and provides related scan information to the interpreting physician.
Maintains a comprehensive Cardiac Ultrasound log and enters data into radiology and hospital information systems.
Ensures proper maintenance of Ultrasound equipment, including routine cleaning, monitoring operation, and arranging for maintenance/repairs. Notifies the Supervisor of quality control issues.
Provides education on procedures and consent to patients, staff, and students through formal workshops, in-services, and informal discussions. Shares information regarding patient conditions at Radiology rounds and makes presentations on interesting cases.
Demonstrates procedures and equipment usage to staff, including residents, sonographers, and students. Participates in the orientation of new employees.
Participates in approved research and special projects in collaboration with the Supervisor and other health care professionals.
Participates in departmental Continuous Quality Improvement/LEAN programs by performing quality assurance checks (e.g., patient/physician satisfaction, booking protocols).
Participates in the evaluation of new equipment by testing new equipment and supplies and providing feedback for purchase decisions.
Requisitions in-house stock and forwards purchase order requests to the supervisor. Cleans and stocks the area as required.
Carries out responsibilities in accordance with health and safety requirements (e.g., Standard Lifts and Transfers, Infection Control, Fire, Disaster, WorkSafe BC). Immediately reports unsafe situations.
Performs other related duties as required.