Vascular Sonographer - Per Diem

Supports, and is responsible for incorporating into job performance, the Frederick Health (FH) mission, vision, core values and customer service philosophy and adheres to the FH Compliance Program, including following all regulatory requirements and the FH Standards of Behavior.

Performs a variety of vascular studies on infants, children, adolescents, adults and geriatric patients in assessment of the circulatory systems using ultrasounds and other testing equipment.  Applies decision making and testing skills both independently and with others to ensure accurate information upon which to make a diagnosis and works closely with physicians in the diagnosis of problems.  Obtains patient history and maintains department records, performs routine maintenance of laboratory equipment, keeps current with changes and advances in their field to maintain lab standards and keep their current registration.  Serves as a clinical resource for non-registered Sonographers.

 Example of Essential Functions:

• Demonstrates competency in performing vascular studies utilizing ultrasound: i.e. selection the correct transducer, obtaining and recording the necessary images, obtaining and performing measurements of structures and velocities and demonstrating patient safety in the use of ultrasound as per department protocol and current standards
• Demonstrates competence in the use of other lab diagnostic equipment, other than ultrasound, per department procedures
• Abides  by all universal infection control protocols
• Provides leadership for non-registered staff with results and techniques for optimal studies
• Explains test and answers patient and family members questions regarding tests
• Documents patient history and checks for correct orders. Provides accurate and precise information regarding the patients’ identification and clinical data.
• Prepares test data for interpretation by physicians
• Logs test, enters correct changes into computer, and insures preliminary report reaches requesting physician
• Helps maintain department patient records
• As a result of lab protocol, consultation with other Sonographers or Physicians, or using independent judgment based on experience performs additional tests to provide the necessary information to make a diagnosis
• Notifies the reading physician and/or the requesting physician that the test results require immediate additional tests and/or treatment
• Treats and uses lab equipment with care and performs routine maintenance
• Reports the equipment issues to the supervisor/manager and/or Bio-Medical department.
• Observes safe operating techniques for the protection of patients and her/himself
• Keeps current with changes and advances in the field and obtains CME’s to maintain registration and meet IAC requirements
• Helps in the training of students and other allied personnel as requested
• Instructs Students on testing procedures and evaluates their performance in accordance with each institutions policies
• Readily provides clerical assistance as needed in the department
• Helps with the transportation of patients when necessary
• Provides statistical data for review
• Works on special projects with Physicians and Hospital Staff
• Other duties as assigned

 Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of the testing process and equipment used. 
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills both verbal and written. 
• Strong customer orientation with the ability to convey the values of the organization to everyone involved with the process.

• Graduate of an accredited school for cardiovascular diagnostic sonography or equivalent documented experience.
• National ARDMS RVT registration in Vascular Sonography or equivalent CCI registration required within one year of hire.
• Current CPR certification. 

 Patient Contact

Must demonstrate and maintain current knowledge and skills in providing appropriate care/contact for patients in the following age groups:

•             _X_      Neonate (0 thru 30 days)
•             _X_      Infant (31 thru 12 months)
•             _X_      Child (13 months thru 12 years)
•             _X_      Adolescent (13 years thru 17 years)
•             _X_      Adult (18 years thru 65 years)
•             _X_      Geriatric (66+ years)

Must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient’s status.  Possess the ability to interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient’s requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs and to provide the care needed as described in the unit’s/department’s policies and procedures.

Medium-Heavy Work – Lifting up to 75 pounds on an infrequent basis (less than one lift every three minutes) and/or carrying up to 35 pounds while walking.  Pushing or pulling up to 115 pounds infrequently or greater than 115 pounds occasionally (no more than once per hour).

Repetition:  Repeating the same motion over and over again places stress on the muscles and tendons.  The severity of risk depends on how often the action is repeated, the speed of the movement, the required force and muscles involved.

Forceful Exertion:  The amount of physical effort required to perform a task (such as moving patients) or to maintain control of equipment or tools.  The amount of force depends on the type of grip, the weight of an object or person, body posture, the type of activity and the duration of the task.

Awkward Posture:  Posture is the position your body is in and its effect on the muscle groups that are involved in the physical activity.  Awkward postures include repeated or prolonged reaching, twisting, bending, kneeling, squatting, working overhead with your hands or arms, or holding fixed positions.

Contact Stress:  Pressing the body hard on sharp edges can result in placing too much pressure on nerves, tendons, and blood vessels.  For example, using the palm of your hand to hit or stick objects can increase risk of musculoskeletal disorders.

 Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Risk:   Category A – WILL have exposure to blood or body fluids.

1. Emotionally demanding environment
2. Exposure to injury from movement of heavy equipment and to hazardous materials with the use of oxygen under high pressure

 Reporting Relationship:

Reports to Vascular, ECHO & EKG Manager