Pediatric Echo Sonographer (Per Diem)

BMC Software•Boston, MA

14h•$31 - $44•Onsite

About The Position

Under supervision, performs non-invasive diagnostic tests for congenital cardiovascular diseases to support quality patient care. The Echocardiographer/Sonographer is responsible for preliminary echocardiographic measurements, summarizing diagnostic data and communicating information to manager or requesting physician. Performs a variety of technical duties in non-traumatic, non-invasive examinations using phono-apexcardiograms, imaging duplex and ultrasound equipment.

Requirements

Completion of a two-year program in a related field of study (e.g., a cardio sonography technical training program).
In-depth knowledge of congenital heart defects and associated syndromes.
Certification or eligibility for registration with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) in echocardiography is strongly preferred.
At least one year of experience in pediatric echocardiography and fetal echocardiography (not including as an intern) in a hospital facility.
Extensive knowledge of congenital heart disease.
Knowledge of general hospital procedures, sonography equipment and proficiency in technical work.
Analytical ability to solve problems of limited technical complexity.
Ability to follow standardized methods, guides and procedures in the resolution of such problems.
Strong interpersonal skills to explain procedures and to allay the apprehension of patients; and to interact effectively with physicians, team members, other hospital staff and patient’s family.
Basic computer proficiency inclusive of ability to access, enter, and interpret computerized data/information.
Must be able to maintain strict confidentiality of all personal/health sensitive information.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual or multi-lingual skills (beyond that of English) appropriate to the patient population served is a plus.

Responsibilities

Performs a variety of technical duties required in non-traumatic, non-invasive examinations using ultrasound equipment.
Steps into a supervisory role when the chief pediatric sonographer is away. Covers pager, respond and triage as necessary.
Work with schedulers and other areas of the hospital -- OB, Adult Cardiology, Pediatric Emergency Department, Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), Pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), Operating room, Post anesthesia care unit (PACU), Adult medical intensive care unit (MICU) to triage echocardiograms to be prioritized and performed.
Perform complex fetal echocardiograms and interprets findings to pediatric cardiologist.
Perform sedated echocardiograms in conjunction with pediatric anesthesia in the PACU or operating rooms.
Assist pediatric cardiologist in performing transesophageal echocardiograms.
Maintain transesophageal probes and adhere to protocols for cleaning and disinfection of this sensitive equipment.
Place holter monitor and event monitor on pediatric patients for analysis for cardiac arrhythmias or abnormalities.
Upload data to Preventice website for interpretation.
Place ambulatory blood pressure monitors and uploads data for analysis.
Perform and interpret vital signs including height, weight, oxygen saturation, manual heart rate, respiratory rate and manual blood pressure on all extremities.
Provide support to adult cardiology when requested on adult patients with congenital heart disease.
Document status of cardiology equipment placed on patient and/or returned for analysis.
Perform electrocardiograms and rhythm strips.
Schedule “echo only” and “clinic echo” appointments.
Position patients and operate equipment to produce the most reliable and informative data.
Explain procedures to patients.
Evaluate as recording occurs and performs complete analysis.
Interpret exams and chart graphics as needed and processes results.
Manage the daily workflow by performing portable exams.
Perform advanced technical responsibilities, consistent with level of skills.
Perform stress echo examinations.
Perform dobutamine echo examinations.
Prepare and maintain a record system for patient examination results.
Provide guidance in performing echocardiograms to fellows, residents and students.
Provide guidance and direction to medical assistants in the absence of the Manager.
Maintain department records, reports and files as required.
Demonstrate proper body mechanics in all functions as required.
Keep the echo room stocked with linen, gel, electrodes etc.
Conduct interpersonal relationships with patients, visitors, physicians and fellow employees in a courteous, professional and friendly manner.
Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age groups including fetus, infant, toddler, adolescent, teenager, adult and geriatric patients regularly served.
Notifies supervisor when patients in age groups not regularly served are present and seeks assistance from individuals with the knowledge of the specialized needs of such age groups.
Maintains work area and equipment in condition as required by department standards.
Maintains appropriate inventory of supplies and orders new supply to prevent shortages.
Enhances professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in-service meetings and workshops.
Conforms to hospital standards of conduct so that the best possible customer service and patient care may be provided.
Utilizes hospital's behavioral standards as the basis for decision-making and to facilitate the hospital’s goals and mission.
Follows established hospital infection control and safety procedures.
Performs other duties as needed.