ULTRASOUND TECHNOLOGIST at Westchester Medical Center – Poughkeepsie, New York

The Ultrasound Technologist consults with the Radiologist regarding procedures to be performed on patients of all types. In addition, the Ultrasound Technologist also performs daily and/or weekly Quality Control on Ultrasound equipment as required. Serves as a positive role model, while working in collaboration with all levels of departmental personnel.

RESPONSIBILITIES

CLINICAL PERFORMANCE

• Independently performs quality control procedures at the designated intervals on imaging and ancillary equipment to ensure compliance with Federal, State and Joint Commission standards of care.
• Competently operates all units of the section’s imaging equipment while performing high-quality procedures in a safe and efficient manner.

CLINICAL MANAGEMENT

• Reviews medical record for patient history while gleaning pertinent clinical information. Shares appropriate or any unusual information with radiologists. Transfers patient to imaging table, explains procedure and position the patient according to protocol.
• Assists in the movement of patients to and from wheelchairs, stretchers and beds to and from imaging equipment/tables. Assists other staff/departments.
• Performs preceptor responsibilities for new hires and when needed, willingly instructs medical staff, and students regarding technical procedures and unit operations.
• Confirms patient identification by using at least two forms of identification as designated according to hospital policy.
• Performs procedures in a timely fashion. Takes the initiative to co-ordinate workflow.
• Provides radiation protection to patient, other staff, and self according to prescribed department safety standards.
• Tracks and verifies all studies performed and sent to PACS/Radiologist in a timely manner.
• Practices sterile technique so as to prevent cross contamination to patients, equipment and instruments.
• Adheres to all standards of patient care.
• Assists Radiologist, Nursing and/or any other Physician in the performance of procedures as required.

DEPARTMENT EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES

• Restocks and maintains cleanliness of assigned workstation / equipment assigned.
• Demonstrates competency in the use of all applicable aspects of the Radiology Information System (RIS), Clinical Information System (CIS), PACS and other computer systems unique to each imaging section. Provides guidance and training to other hospital staff as needed.
• Assists in filing, retrieving and copying patient reports/films according to department Policies and Procedures.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY

• Actively participates in the adherence to all departmental budgets
• Promotes the effective utilization of department supplies.

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

• Reports problems or concerns to the proper administrative personnel within the Imaging Services Department within specific time frames.
• Completes all necessary paperwork and documentation as required by department Policies and Procedures.
• Attends and/ or read and signs department meetings as required.
• Collaborates, communicates and problem solves regularly with other divisions of the department, and establish ongoing lines of communication with other Hospital departments. Works pro-actively with other Hospital departments to facilitate patient access to the scheduling of examinations. Makes recommendations for process or quality improvement.

LEADERSHIP/PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY

• Performs all requested tasks/responsibilities as may be assigned by the proper administrative personnel within the Imaging Services Department within specified time frames.
• Performs on-call duties and / or works variable shifts as assigned to meet the needs of the department. Volunteers for additional shifts/call.
• Obtains at least 12 continuing education credits per year.
• Demonstrates effective decision making in clinical situations. Brings to the attention of Managers issues that may interfere with safe and effective patient care and makes recommendations to resolve or correct.
• Works effectively and efficiently during stressful conditions. Recognizes needs and assists others during stressful situations.
• Demonstrates knowledge of all current Imaging procedures and trends.
• Actively participates in ongoing departmental services development and implementation.
• Acts as a resource to physicians, nursing, and other staff concerning imaging procedures.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Serves as brand ambassador by upholding the WMCHealth Mission, Vision, and CARE values and promoting excellence in the patient experience, during every encounter.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

EXPERIENCE

• Two(2) to three (3) years progressive training in Ultrasound preferred.

EDUCATION

• Completion of an ARDMS approved program in Ultrasonography.
• CPR certification

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS

• Registered Sonographer required.
• Appropriate Federal, State and local licensing requirements.

OTHER

• If applicable, the individual performing this job may reasonably anticipate coming into contact with human blood and other potentially infectious materials. Individuals in this position are required to exercise universal precautions, use personal protective equipment and devices, and learn the policies concerning infection control.
• The ability to effectively deal with patients, employees, physicians, other healthcare providers and visitors.
• Meets the requirements established by Employee Health Services.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively function as a health care team member.
• Demonstrated skills necessary to perform teaching and leadership duties as required within the job description.
• Demonstrated effective communication skills and ability to work effectively and efficiently in stressful situations.