Pediatric Cardiac Sonographer I

Advocate Health•Park Ridge, NJ

5d•$36 - $53•Hybrid

About The Position

This position performs pediatric echocardiograms on patients in inpatient and outpatient settings, utilizing multiple echocardiography systems. The sonographer must recognize the significance of visualized structures, differentiate artifacts from appropriate images, and understand the limitations of the equipment, applying knowledge of anatomy and physiology. They will perform examinations recognizing various cardiac defects and conduct emergency examinations in diverse hospital locations. The role involves tailoring exams to clinical questions based on standard protocols. Additionally, the sonographer reviews patient medical records for clinical information, communicates effectively with patients and families to enhance their experience and support health outcomes, and maintains appropriate records of diagnostic tests. They communicate pertinent patient information, including abnormal findings, to physicians and team members, and manage equipment maintenance and supply orders. Accurate data processing for electronic reporting and billing is also a key responsibility.

Requirements

Advanced training beyond High School that includes the completion of an accredited or approved program in Sonography.
Two years of experience in adult echocardiography preferred.
Registered in Adult Echocardiography (RDCS_AE) issued by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) within one year or the Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) issued by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) within one year.
Must Obtain pediatric registry status within 12 months of hire with either American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (RDCS_PE, ARDMS) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (RCCS, CCI).
Basic Life Support/CPR.
Ability to perform pediatric echocardiogram.
Demonstrate advanced knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, and disease.
Ability to operate ultrasound equipment utilizing a variety of possible techniques, including M-mode, two-dimensional, pulsed and continuous wave Doppler flow mapping.
Ability to perform examinations, recognizing the significance of all structures that are visualized, differentiating artifacts from appropriate images, while recognizing the limitations of equipment and utilizing knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
Ability to recognize and record cardiac pathology in order for the physician to render a diagnosis.
Ability to make knowledgeable clinical assessments and judgments.
Ability to educate patients and families of safe and appropriate testing; thoroughly explaining procedures, answering questions and calming concerns.
Ability to work both independently and as a care team member.
Ability to interact professionally and develop effective relationships.
Ability to maintain composure under stress, using tact and good judgment.
Demonstrate flexibility performing tests/scans in a variety of clinical environments.
Maintains the required amount of continuing education credits required to maintain registry and/or certification status.
Operates all equipment necessary to perform the job.
Must be able to sit 50% and stand and walk 20% of the workday.
Must be able to: lift up to 50 lbs. from floor to waist; lift up to 20 lbs. over the head; carry up to 40 lbs. a reasonable distance.
Must be able to: push/pull with 30 lbs. of force; perform a sliding transfer of 150 lbs. with a second person present.
Must be able to frequently push or pull over 100 lbs.
Able to use hands and feet to operate equipment.
Functional speech, vision and hearing.
Will be required to wear protective clothing (i.e., lead aprons, isolation gowns, protective eyewear, etc.) as needed.
Will be exposed to mechanical, electrical and chemical hazards.

Nice To Haves

Two years of experience in adult echocardiography

Responsibilities

Perform pediatric echocardiogram on patients in the inpatient and outpatient setting, using multiple echocardiography systems and accessories appropriate to the patient’s specific diagnosis, age, height, and weight.
Perform examinations, recognizing the significance of all structures that are visualized, differentiating artifacts from appropriate images, recognizing the limitations of the equipment and utilizing knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
Perform examinations, recognizing a variety of different types of cardiac defects.
Perform emergency examinations in the department, intensive care units, other inpatient units, emergency department, cardiac cath lab, and operating room.
Perform tests according to standard protocols; tailor the exam to answer the clinical question as appropriate.
Review patient’s medical record to obtain necessary clinical information including patient history, lab results, and physician orders. Obtains necessary clinical information from patients and compares requisitions to physicians' orders to ensure exam accuracy.
Communicate to patient and family members in a timely and thorough manner that enhances the patient experience and promotes learning to understand procedures, symptoms, and to support health care outcomes.
Keep appropriate records of the diagnostic tests performed.
Communicate pertinent patient information to physicians and appropriate team members including abnormal findings and changes in test results from previous examinations.
Request work orders for maintenance of equipment to provide optimal working condition. Order and replace supplies used. Keep exam area and procedure room stocked and clean.
Accurately process data needed to complete the report template in the electronic reporting tool.
Accurately complete billing for the procedures being completed.

Benefits

Comprehensive suite of Total Rewards
Benefits and well-being programs
Competitive compensation
Generous retirement offerings
Programs that invest in your career development
Base compensation listed within the listed pay range based on factors such as qualifications, skills, relevant experience, and/or training
Premium pay such as shift, on call, and more based on a teammate's job
Incentive pay for select positions
Opportunity for annual increases based on performance
Paid Time Off programs
Health and welfare benefits such as medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
Family benefits such as adoption assistance and paid parental leave
Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs
Educational Assistance Program