Sonographer - Full Time - Jefferson Hwy

Ochsner Health•New Orleans, LA

2d•Onsite

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 eligibility to be completed within one year of hire; specialty certification may also be required according to facility need, along with American Heart Association Basic Life Support certification. The Sonographer verifies orders, explains procedures to patients, operates ultrasound equipment, reviews images for diagnostic quality, and completes quality-control procedures. The role contributes to departmental operations and adapts communication and care to individual patient populations. Work involves direct patient care and routine exposure to blood, body fluids, tissue, communicable disease risks, and potentially hazardous medications or waste. The position is classified as medium work, involving specified levels of lifting and exertion.

Requirements

Completion of a CAHEA-approved formal training program in diagnostic medical sonography.
Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) certification or registry eligibility, 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 people 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 understand pathology of these organs to provide radiologists with a preliminary diagnosis.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including availability for 24/7 coverage, weekends, holidays, and on-call work.
Ability to meet the physical demands of medium work: exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, 10 to 25 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly.
Ability to work in a patient-care environment with routine exposure to blood, body fluids, tissue, potential communicable diseases, and possible occupational exposure to hazardous medications or waste.

Nice To Haves

Two years of sonographer experience.

Responsibilities

Verify physician orders and procedures for 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 needs of the specific patient population, including respecting privacy, introducing oneself appropriately, explaining procedures, requesting permissions, and adapting communication style.
Perform other related duties as required.
Remain knowledgeable about applicable laws, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements, and ensure compliance.
Immediately report known or suspected unethical or questionable conduct and concerns related to patient or employee safety, privacy, or compliance.