Registered Ultrasound Technician

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This position exists in the County Hospital Radiology Department and involves responsibility for performance of diagnostic medical examination of patients using dynamic ultrasound imaging, standard ultrasound static scanner and film imaging equipment.  The work is performed under general direction of a Radiologist or Director of Diagnostic Imaging with leeway allowed for exercise of independent judgment in carrying out technical details of the work.  Supervision may be exercised over the work of subordinates.  The incumbent does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:

• Performs clinical assessment and diagnostic sonography examinations as ordered by the attending physician;
• Uses cognitive sonographic skills to identify, record and adapt procedures as appropriate to anatomical, pathological, diagnostic information and images
• Uses independent judgment during the sonographic exam to accurately differentiate between normal and pathologic findings;
• Analyzes sonograms, synthesizes sonographic information and medical history, and communicate findings to the appropriate physician;
• Prepares preliminary reports and contacts referring physicians when required, according to established procedures;
• Coordinates work schedule with department Director and/or scheduling desk to ensure workload coverage;
• Assumes responsibility for the safety, mental and physical comfort of patients while they are in the sonographer’s care;
• Coordinates with other staff to ensure appropriate patient care is provided;
• Addresses problems with patient care as they arise and makes decisions to appropriately resolve the problem;
• Organizes daily work schedule and performs related clerical duties as required;
• Maintains a daily log of patients seen;
• Maintains ultrasound equipment and work area and reports equipment problems to the appropriate supervisor or staff member, and maintains adequate supplies;
• Participates in the maintenance of department accreditation (if applicable);
• Establishes and maintains ethical working relationships and good rapport with all interrelating hospital, referral or commercial agencies;
• Performs other work-related duties as assigned.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Good knowledge of human diagnostic ultrasound medical examining techniques; good knowledge of dark room chemistry, techniques and film developing practices; good knowledge of human anatomy and physiology; good knowledge of accepted professional ethics; good knowledge of accepted safety precautions and practices of the profession; skill in the operation, adjustment and minor preventative maintenance of ultrasound medical examination equipment; ability to produce diagnostic scans of parts of the human anatomy; ability to move and position patients for diagnostic examination; ability to carry out complex oral and written directions; ability to develop ultrasound films and maintain film library; ability to get along well with patients and staff; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Registration, with active status, as a Registered Ultrasound Medical Technologist, by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).