Pediatric Echo Sonographer- PRN

Houston Methodist•Sweetwater, FL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

At Houston Methodist, the Pediatric Echo Sonographer performs routine to complex echocardiograms for inpatient and outpatient patients, including transthoracic echocardiograms (TTE) with Color, Spectral Doppler, and 2-D imaging; transesophageal echocardiograms (TEE); plain or dobutamine stress echocardiograms; TTE with bubbles or contrast; and advanced TTE with 4D imaging. The sonographer independently evaluates patients with known or suspected complex congenital or structural heart defects, which may require surgical reconstruction, repair, or replacement. The role locates, evaluates, and records relevant anatomical, pathological, and functional data using different ultrasound systems; transmits exams to compatible DICOM storage applications; processes preliminary technical data in the designated interpreting system; and communicates significant findings to the attending reading physician. Availability for on-call work is required. The position supports patient care through accurate studies, patient education and preparation, assistance to physicians and healthcare team members, appropriate sterile and aseptic techniques, and clear communication. It also includes documentation and charge entry when applicable, equipment quality checks, safety and infection-control compliance, and participation in departmental improvement and professional development activities. The position is PRN and listed on the day shift.

Requirements

Graduate of an education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s).
One year of experience in pediatric echocardiography.
Current BLS - Basic Life Support or Instructor certification from the American Heart Association.
Must hold at least one of the following: RDCS, RDCS-AE, RVT, RDCS-PE (ARDMS); or RCS or RVS (CCI).
Demonstrate the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, as assessed through ongoing skills and competency assessments and performance evaluations.
Sufficient English speaking, reading, and writing proficiency to perform essential job functions, particularly those affecting patient or employee safety and security.
Ability to communicate effectively with patients, physicians, family members, and coworkers using a customer-service focus and positive language.
Basic computer knowledge and ability to use hospital, radiology, and cardiology information systems and office software to maintain patient and exam documents.
Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills with all levels of the healthcare team.
Ability to adapt to multiple ongoing priorities with minimal supervision, organize workflow, and participate in problem solving.

Responsibilities

Perform routine to complex cardiac echocardiograms for inpatient and outpatient patients, including TTE, TEE, stress echocardiograms, TTE with bubbles or contrast, and advanced TTE with 4D imaging.
Independently evaluate patients for known or suspected complex congenital or structural heart defects.
Locate, evaluate, and record pertinent anatomical, pathological, and functional data using ultrasound equipment.
Transmit exams to compatible DICOM storage applications and process preliminary technical data in the designated interpreting system.
Communicate significant findings to the attending reading physician and report pertinent patient-care information to the care team.
Calculate valve area, pressure gradients, and ejection fraction; confirm studies are clear and concise for the interpreting physician and patient-care team.
Identify abnormal findings and take corrective action or promptly communicate them to appropriate personnel.
Provide care for patients’ physical needs during cardiac echo studies and explain exam purposes and techniques to patients.
Assist physicians and other healthcare team members during studies, including patient preparation and proper sterile techniques when indicated.
Maintain aseptic techniques and comply with infection-control, job, department, and hospital safety policies.
Ensure patient-care equipment has required quality-control checks and is safe to use; report malfunctions and perform preventive maintenance or request service as needed.
Document patient procedures accurately and completely, and enter charges when applicable.
Use resources cost-effectively, manage time and priorities, and assist coworkers as needed.
Contribute to a positive, collaborative team environment, patient advocacy, patient satisfaction, and department improvement efforts.
Participate in departmental projects and shared governance activities focused on innovation, efficiency, or improving patient care.
Identify professional development needs and maintain an ongoing development plan.
Be available for on-call work; employees may also be required to be on call during emergencies.