Echo Tech (Cardiac Sonographer)

2510 Cobb Hospital, Inc. • Mableton, GA

4h

About The Position

The Cardiac Sonographer performs cardiac imaging under the direction of the Manager or Lead/Chief Sonographer. Depending on the designated facility, examinations may include adult, pediatric, transesophageal (including structural heart), and stress echocardiograms. The role includes performing measurements and calculations according to laboratory protocol and providing an oral summary of preliminary findings to the interpreting physician when requested. The sonographer is responsible for patient safety and well-being in the Echo department and must communicate effectively with patients and the healthcare team. The role may also include administering Ultrasound Enhancing Agents (UEAs) and conducting saline bubble studies.

This is a full-time day-shift position with a 3 12-hour-shift schedule. Call is required, and the sonographer must work weekends and holidays on a rotating basis. The role also includes other work-related duties as assigned and requires compliance with Wellstar Health System policies, standards of work, and code of conduct.

Requirements

• High school diploma/GED; a general or trade school diploma/degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography is preferred.
• One of the following certifications is required upon hire: ARDMS Registered Medical Sonographer, RCS (Registered Cardiac Sonographer) through CCI, or RDCS (Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer).
• One of the following certifications is required upon hire: BLS, ARC-BLS, or BLS-I.
• At least 1 year of echocardiography experience is preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with physicians, patients, visitors, departmental staff, and nursing staff.
• Ability to obtain, present, and discuss clinical information and explain or give directions to gain cooperation.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure while participating effectively in a team.
• Strong customer-service skills and ability to work effectively in a stressful, fast-paced environment.
• Ability to prioritize, multitask, and maintain attention to detail.
• Flexibility with work hours to meet department needs; dependability, accountability, and cooperation.
• Ability to provide safe, age-appropriate care and perform department examinations according to procedures.
• Knowledge and ability to obtain quality diagnostic studies safely and correctly.
• Ability to perform varied technical procedures using independent judgment, ingenuity, and initiative in the use of equipment.
• Ability to perform job functions independently, set up imaging equipment, and position patients.
• Competence in cardiac ultrasound, patient positioning, and exposure factors.
• Understanding of anatomy and pathology and their effects on procedure quality.

Nice To Haves

• Diagnostic Medical Sonography diploma or degree.
• Graduate of a formal Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.
• Graduate of an accredited Cardiovascular Technology program.

Responsibilities

• Verify that a proper clinician order is in place and confirm patient identity using two unique identifiers.
• Obtain clinical history and examination data, assess for contraindications, prepare and position patients, and provide appropriate pre- and post-procedure care.
• Perform cardiac imaging and measurements according to laboratory protocols, including applicable adult, pediatric, transesophageal, structural heart, and stress echocardiograms.
• Administer UEAs and perform saline bubble studies when required, following established procedures.
• Review images for clinically acceptable results, release patients, and send completed studies to PACS; print CDs as needed.
• Provide an oral summary of preliminary findings to the interpreting physician when requested.
• Monitor patient condition, recognize when physician intervention is needed, and maintain patient safety, privacy, dignity, and comfort.
• Explain examinations to patients and families, address questions and concerns, seek clarification for ambiguous orders, and communicate effectively with the care team.
• Follow preprocedural verification and Time Out processes when appropriate and follow physician instructions during procedures.
• Assist other team members and modalities as needed; participate in orientation and training of departmental employees.
• Complete concise, legible documentation using precise terminology; read work email and complete required education.
• Check equipment calibration and operation before use, report malfunctions, and clean, disinfect, and maintain equipment according to policy and schedule.
• Follow infection-control policies and maintain Joint Commission and other regulatory standards.
• Restock linens and supplies, keep the department clean and orderly, and transport patients as needed.
• Perform patient charging activities on the day of service and routine clerical or support duties when warranted.
• Operate workstations associated with the ultrasound department and push or retrieve images between the ultrasound console and PACS.
• Organize priorities and maintain an individual productivity rate comparable to coworkers.
• Keep the supervisor informed of responsibilities and promptly report problems or potential problems.
• Take call as required and work rotating weekends and holidays.
• Perform other duties as assigned and comply with Wellstar policies, standards of work, and code of conduct.

Benefits

• Sign-on bonus eligibility.
• Competitive relocation assistance package for eligible candidates.
• Benefits program including PTO, mental health support, wellness rooms, and concierge services.
• Access to Wellstar’s CareerCare program for fully funded education and guided career progression.
• Competitive hourly pay with shift differential incentives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED