Sonographer - PRN - OB/ GYN

Ochsner Health•Lake Charles, LA

About The Position

In collaboration with staff radiologists, the Sonographer independently performs advanced diagnostic ultrasound procedures in accordance with prescribed safety procedures and protocols. The role also serves as a clinical mentor for junior staff and students. The position requires completion of a CAHEA-approved formal training program in diagnostic medical sonography. RDMS registration or registry eligibility is required, with registry completion within one year of hire; advanced certification in specialty areas is required according to facility need, along with American Heart Association BLS. No work experience is required, though two years of sonographer experience is preferred. The Sonographer verifies orders and procedures, explains procedures to patients, operates imaging equipment, reviews images for diagnostic quality, performs quality control, and supports departmental operations. The role requires adapting communication and conduct to the needs and privacy of each patient, and maintaining compliance with applicable laws, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements. Work takes place in a patient-care environment, with routine exposure to blood, body fluids, tissue, communicable diseases, and potential exposure to hazardous medications or waste. The job has medium physical demands, including exerting 20–50 pounds occasionally, 10–25 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly.

Requirements

Completion of a CAHEA-approved formal training program in diagnostic medical sonography.
Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) or registry eligible, with registration required within one year of hire.
Advanced certification in specialty area(s) according to facility need.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association.
Proficiency in using computers, software, and web-based applications.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present information clearly and professionally to individuals at varying levels throughout the patient-care process.
Knowledge of the anatomy of the liver, gallbladder, aorta, spleen, kidneys, bile ducts, and pancreas, and ability to perform abdominal ultrasound and recognize pathology of these organs to provide radiologists with a preliminary diagnosis.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including 24/7 coverage, weekends, holidays, and on-call availability.
Ability to meet the physical demands of Medium Work: exerting 20–50 pounds occasionally, 10–25 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly.
Ability to work in a patient-care environment with routine exposure to blood, body fluid, and tissue, and potential occupational exposure to communicable diseases, hazardous medications, or hazardous waste.

Nice To Haves

Two years of sonographer experience.

Responsibilities

Verify physician orders and procedures to ensure accuracy.
Use radiology information systems to facilitate care.
Explain procedures to patients to ensure understanding.
Independently operate equipment to complete imaging procedures according to protocol, including assisting radiologists with guided procedures in a variety of settings.
Review patient images before transmission to ensure they meet diagnostic quality standards.
Complete timely quality control procedures in accordance with regulatory standards and perform notification or remediation as warranted.
Assist with departmental operations, including inventory, staff schedules, and equipment maintenance.
Adapt behavior and communication to the specific patient population, including respecting privacy, introducing oneself appropriately, explaining services or procedures, requesting permissions, and adjusting communication style.
Perform other related duties as required.
Remain knowledgeable about applicable federal, state, and local laws, accreditation standards, and regulatory agency requirements, and ensure compliance.
Serve as a clinical mentor for junior staff and students.