Lead Echo Tech

REGIONAL ONE HEALTH•Memphis, TN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Echo Tech assists in coordinating, implementing, and monitoring shift activities for echocardiographic examinations and patient treatment. The role assigns duties and activities, makes effective use of diagnostic cardiology staff and other resources, and performs routine and specialized echocardiogram procedures as required. The position coordinates daily department operations, supports staffing and work assignments, oversees and instructs personnel, assists with employee and student orientation, and collaborates with the diagnostic cardiology manager. It communicates policies and procedures, addresses inquiries and operational issues, and escalates matters requiring intervention. The Lead Echo Tech performs diagnostic cardiology procedures as ordered, prepares and operates equipment, positions and instructs patients, assists physicians and staff, monitors patients and equipment, processes images, documents procedures, and observes radiation-safety, infection-control, and patient-safety practices. The role also maintains records and supplies, supports quality improvement and emergency response, helps maintain a clean and safe environment, assists with department budget development, and provides coverage for relief and absences. Flexibility to work nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts is required as needed for continuous coverage.

Requirements

Graduate of an AMA-approved program in Cardiac Imaging.
Qualified by education, training, or experience to work with the neonate, adolescent, adult, and/or geriatric patient population as the specialty assignment dictates.
CCI (Cardiovascular Credentialing International) certification required upon hire, or ARDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonography) certification required upon hire.
CPR (Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation) certification required upon hire.
Additional certification may be required based on assigned specialty area upon hire.
At least 2 years of experience as a Diagnostic Cardiology technologist.
Ability to perform the physical activities and demands listed in the posting, including frequent lifting, carrying, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, handling, and grasping; constant standing, walking, talking, hearing, repetitive motions, and eye/hand/foot coordination.

Responsibilities

Coordinate daily department activities in accordance with established policies and procedures to support efficient operations and patient-care objectives.
Assist with formulating and implementing department procedures and policies.
Review work orders, prioritize activities, and expedite patient examinations or treatment as needed.
Schedule and assign employee work and coordinate daily patient and workload assignments.
Oversee personnel and instruct them in the setup, regulation, and monitoring of echo and other equipment.
Review patient charts and department records to ensure procedures follow professional standards and practices.
Assist with examinations and procedures as required.
Collaborate with the diagnostic cardiology manager on new-employee in-service instruction and orientation.
Assist with orientation and supervise students while they provide patient care, treatment, and services as part of their training.
Communicate and work collaboratively with patients, families, hospital staff, and visitors; interpret policies and procedures; respond to inquiries; resolve complaints and operational problems; and escalate issues when necessary.
Notify the Nursing Clinical Supervisor as needed about problems requiring immediate attention during off shifts.
Take personnel or disciplinary action as needed in consultation with the Clinical Supervisor or Cardiology Manager, and follow up with the Cardiology Manager regarding employee performance and actions.
Perform routine and diagnostic cardiology procedures as ordered and consistent with competencies, patient-care procedures, risk management, infection control, and patient-safety practices.
Use aseptic techniques and universal precautions; select and prepare equipment and supplies; and determine appropriate equipment settings.
Explain procedures to patients, position and instruct them, and use immobilizing or supportive devices when appropriate.
Perform echocardiogram examinations and use portable or mobile echo units, including in specialty areas when requested.
Assist physicians and radiology staff during procedures.
Prepare for and assist with administering contrast agents, monitor dosages, and check for potential allergies in accordance with department procedures.
Observe patients and equipment during procedures and report adverse or unusual reactions or events.
Process films and prepare images for viewing; identify and correct technical errors to ensure clear and accurate images.
Follow radiation-safety standards and use appropriate protective devices to protect patients and staff.
Accurately document procedures, charges, patient information, assessments, and patient responses; operate patient computer systems and the Cardiology PACS system; and ensure information and images are transmitted correctly to Cardio PACS.
Respond to or participate in medical emergencies and initiate or assist with CPR/BLS/ACLS as required.
Prepare and maintain records, reports, and files; protect confidential patient, family, department, and hospital information; and follow applicable policies, including HIPAA and compliance policies.
Participate in quality and performance improvement, collect quality data, and take part in unit-based improvement activities, committees, monitoring, and follow-up.
Provide clinical support to diagnostic cardiology and other medical and hospital staff as needed.
Assist with equipment maintenance, use supplies cost-effectively, maintain stock levels, and help keep the environment clean, orderly, and safe.
Prepare or clean patient rooms by changing linens, stocking supplies, and wiping down tables and equipment.
Complete required continuing training and education, including department-specific requirements.
Assist with development and maintenance of the department budget.
Provide coverage for relief and absences and work nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts as required for continuous coverage.