Sonographer

Ochsner Health•Meridian, MS

18d

About The Position

In collaboration with staff radiologists, the Sonographer independently performs advanced diagnostic ultrasound procedures according to prescribed safety procedures and protocols. The position also serves as a clinical mentor for junior staff and students. The role involves direct patient care and requires adapting communication and procedures to individual patient needs, protecting patient privacy, and following applicable laws, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements. The job description summarizes the position and is not an exhaustive list of duties; responsibilities may change or be supplemented.

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 areas according to facility need.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association.
Computer skills and dexterity for data entry and retrieval of patient information.
Proficiency with Windows-style applications, role-specific software packages, and keyboard use.
Effective verbal and written communication skills and 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 for abdominal ultrasound, and knowledge of the 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 stoop, bend, reach, and grasp with arms and hands, and sufficient manual dexterity.
Ability to meet medium-work physical demands: exerting 20–50 pounds of force occasionally, 10–25 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly to move objects.
Ability to use mechanical lifting devices or team lifts as appropriate.
Ability to work in a patient-care environment with routine exposure to blood, body fluids, and tissue, and potential exposure to communicable diseases, hazardous medications, or hazardous 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 conduct and communication to the patient population, including respecting privacy, introducing oneself appropriately, explaining services or procedures, requesting permissions, and tailoring communication style.
Mentor junior staff and students clinically.
Remain knowledgeable about applicable federal, state, and local laws, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements and ensure compliance.
Immediately report known or suspected unethical or questionable conduct, patient or employee safety concerns, patient privacy concerns, and other compliance-related issues.
Perform other related duties as required.