MFM Ultrasonographer II

Texas Children's Hospital•Houston, TX

About The Position

The MFM Ultrasonographer II performs routine and comprehensive ultrasound examinations for interpretation by Maternal Fetal Medicine and Radiology faculty using specialized ultrasound equipment. The role obtains, reviews, and integrates relevant patient history and clinical data; performs procedures and records anatomic, pathologic, and physiologic data; processes and presents images and observations to interpreting physicians; exercises independent judgment during diagnostic examinations; educates patients about procedures; and maintains standards of care and a safe environment. The position performs and completes examinations within designated time frames, communicates technical findings to physicians, and provides ultrasound guidance for procedures such as genetic amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, multifetal reduction, and amnioreduction. The sonographer supports patient comfort and safety, department operations, accreditation and quality improvement, and professional development while following hospital and departmental policies.

Requirements

Technical diploma and graduation from a Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program, or an associate's or bachelor's degree.
RDMS-OB (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, Obstetrics and Gynecology) certification from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
Two years of maternal fetal medicine scanning experience or four years of ultrasound scanning experience.

Nice To Haves

NUCH TRA (Nuchal Translucency) certification from the Perinatal Quality Foundation.
RDMS-FE (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Fetal Echocardiography) certification from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

Responsibilities

Perform high-quality diagnostic ultrasound imaging examinations according to department guidelines and protocols, independently scanning routine and comprehensive studies under MFM physician supervision.
Verify patient identity and confirm that the requested procedure corresponds to the patient's clinical history.
Review relevant clinical information, personal and family history, exposures, risk factors, and prior imaging reports or images.
Explain procedures to patients, respond to questions and concerns, communicate delays and other patient-related information, and provide a pleasant, reassuring experience.
Perform appropriate procedures and record anatomic, pathologic, and physiologic data for interpretation by Maternal Fetal Medicine and Radiology faculty.
Use independent judgment to distinguish normal from pathologic findings and extend examinations with additional images when indicated by pathology, findings, or patient history.
Review images for accurate annotation, technique, and completeness, and adjust technical factors to improve image quality.
Maintain knowledge of anatomy, pathology, hemodynamics, and ultrasound physics to identify and characterize normal and aberrant anatomy, masses, fluid collections, stenosis, and artifacts.
Record and process sonographic images and observations and ensure documentation is accurate, concise, and complete.
Complete examinations within designated time frames, prepare examination reports, and communicate ultrasound technical findings to interpreting physicians.
Independently perform ultrasound guidance services for procedures including genetic amniocentesis, transvaginal and transcervical chorionic villus biopsy, multifetal reduction, and amnioreduction.
Perform first- and second-trimester screening, transvaginal cervical-length assessment, routine and comprehensive ultrasound examinations, biophysical profiles, growth assessments, and Doppler assessments of the middle cerebral artery peak velocity, umbilical artery, umbilical vein, and ductus venosus in cases of twin-twin transfusion and fetal growth restriction.
Perform CVS procedures and take additional images as needed to evaluate abnormalities.
Develop familiarity with 3D imaging.
Demonstrate proficiency with ultrasound equipment, transducers, computer systems, and electronic medical records.
Assume responsibility for patients' safety, mental and physical comfort, and well-being while in the sonographer's care.
Maintain adequate supplies and appropriate inventory control.
Participate in the AIUM accreditation process and continuous quality improvement activities.
Perform patient-care functions, promote positive communication, and participate in the professional development of self and others.
Work effectively with minimal supervision, seek guidance when needed, and respond positively to guidance.
Adhere to hospital and departmental policies and procedures and perform other essential job-related functions.