Ultrasonographer - CHC (Kitty Degree)

The Ultrasound Tech 1 performs diagnostic sonographic examinations utilizing ultrasonic equipment to locate, evaluate and record critical physiological, pathological, and anatomical data. Produces ultrasound images to aid in the diagnosis of medical problems. the ultrasound technologist monitors and ensures safety of patient and staff.  Performs patient screening by using established protocols. Utilizes departmental policy to perform safe operation of equipment and in all functions of the job. Provides complete pre and post education to patients and family.  Works under minimal supervision and may perform additional job duties.

1. Clinical skills: This will have been satisfactorily performed when…
   a. Ultrasound principles and theory, anatomy and pathology processes are
   followed utilizing the most appropriate technique and/or positing for optimal
   examinations are demonstrated as evidenced by exam results.
   b. Policies and protocols are adhered to, and all examinations are optimized
   for interpretation, as evidenced by exam results.
   c. Sound ultrasound principles are taught to staff and students as required
   by organization and supervisors' direct observation.
   d. Assistance is provided to the physician in performing a variety of
   examinations using standard department protocols, isolation precautions
   and/or sterile technique, as evidenced by physician's satisfaction.
   e. The procedure is appropriately explained to patients/families and answers
   any questions to ease anxiety and assure patient cooperation, as
   evidenced by customer satisfaction.
   f. Tracks patients and identifies errors and takes immediate action for
   corrections as specified within departmental procedures as evidenced by
   the risk management reports. 
    
2. Patient/General Safety: This will have been satisfactorily performed when…
   a. Patient safety is demonstrated in the department by use of side rails,
   braking mechanisms and patient monitoring, as demonstrated by risk
   management reports.
   b. Any adverse, unsafe or unusual condition is reported, documented and
   corrected, as evidenced by the patient/employee incidence reports or
   department specific logbooks.
   c. Clinical and/or emergent problems that may interfere with exams are
   identified and appropriate action taken to resolve them and produce the
   most desirable outcome, as evidenced by exam results and patient
   satisfaction.
   d. IV's, heparin locks and central line usage are effectively used as they
   pertain to radiography, as evidenced by observations by supervisor and
   peers. 
    
3. Equipment Maintenance: This will have been satisfactorily performed when… 
   a. Proper care and aseptic cleaning of all patient related equipment following established department policies is done to ensure the quality of care provided to patients and evidence by infection report. 
   b. Imaging and other related equipment is operated according to manufacturer's specifications, as evidenced by exam results. 
   c. The technologist troubleshoots equipment effectively and reports equipment problems to biomedical engineering/vendor, as evidenced by service reports. 
   d. Routine maintenance of all US equipment is performed/identified to maintain consistent quality images, as evidenced by the physician and the exam results. 
   e. An orderly, safe, and clean environment is maintained at all times. Ensures rooms are stocked with appropriate supplies and has required supplies readily available for procedures, as evidenced by customer satisfaction.
    
4. Documentation/Communication: This will have been satisfactorily performed when… 
   a. Communicates effectively with patient to obtain clinical history/informed consent from the patient or patient's chart to assist the physician in optimizing the performance and interpretation of the examination, as evidenced by the exam results. 
   b. Patients are correctly identified along with their files ensuring a high degree of accuracy, as evidenced by the lack of mislabeled studies. 
   c. Actively participates in department/hospital performance improvement initiative, in-services and meetings, as evidenced by attendance records.
    
5. Other duties as assigned: This will have been satisfactorily performed when… 
   a. Acts as a backup for other technologists in the department as needed. 
   b. Additional duties are correctly and appropriately completed within the specified time frame as required by managers/supervisors.
    

Education:  Graduate from an accredited school of sonography or completion of an ultrasound program.

Training:  Graduate from an accredited school of sonography or completion of an ultrasound program.

Special Skills:  Good interpersonal/human relations skills; Good oral/written communication skills; Good teamwork skills; Good critical thinking/decision making skills; Superior organizational skills