Diag Med Sonographer Per Diem

At Bristol Health, we begin each day caring today for your tomorrow.  We have been an integral part of our community for the past 100 years. We are dedicated to providing the best possible care and service to our patients, residents and families.  We are committed to provide compassionate, quality care at all times and to uphold our values of Communication, Accountability, Respect and Empathy (C.A.R.E.).   We are Magnet ® and received the 2020 Press Ganey Leading Innovator award for our rapid adoption and implementation of healthcare solutions during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Use your expertise, compassion, and kindness to transform the patient experience.  Make a difference.  Make Bristol Health your choice.  

Independently evaluates and documents a wide variety of complex sonographic (ultrasound) examinations, utilizing non-ionizing high frequency ultrasonic waves.  Produces high quality imaging of required anatomy, for use by Provider in patient diagnosis.  Performs specialized procedures requiring advanced knowledge/techniques.  Utilizes multiple adjustments, settings and variable controls on complex instruments/equipment to produce and enhance images.  May assist with orientation and training of new staff.  Also assists with the evaluation of new equipment, procedures and protocols.  Carries out emergency procedures within authorized limitations.  Maintains required records and files.  Performs routine maintenance on equipment.

Performs sonographic examinations/procedures.

• Receives orders for designated ultrasound procedures.  Reviews patient history for information which may be helpful in planning for procedures.  Coordinates with Physician's office or nursing unit, the timing of preliminary medications or preps for procedures.
• Enters patient's information into computer.  Sets and adjusts equipment controls using knowledge of ultrasound physics and variable technical factors on complex electronic and computerized instruments.  Takes into consideration type of exam, patient body habits and clinical history.
• Independently performs scans of particular patient anatomy, as requested by the Physician, utilizing in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology.  Recognizes a variety of pathological conditions and their manifestations of appearances under sonographic study.  Exercises own judgment to extend or discontinue examination, as necessary.
• Prepares and arranges patient in proper positions for examinations.  Attaches and/or adjusts any required immobilization and supportive devices.  Continually adjusts patient position, transducer and controls to regulate intensity/ amplitude of electronic beam, suppression of unwanted artificial images for radiologist.
• Monitors video screen while scanning, noting normal or abnormal anatomy and recording same.
• Makes precise measurements of different organs and fetal parts in order to calculate diagnostic information.

Performs variety of special procedures.

• Sets up sterile trays with prescribed equipment following all regulations dealing with sterile techniques and related matters.
• Performs preliminary scans.
• Assists Physician in a variety of biopsies, amniocentesis, lesion localization, fetal manipulation, etc.
• Repeats scan and records changes as a result of special procedures.

Provides communication.

Able to communicate clearly pertinent information to radiologist and other providers.

Educational / Minimum Requirements:

Graduate of an approved ultrasound program

State/Federal Mandated Licensure or Certification Requirements:

American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Ultrasound Certification.

American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS)  Certification.

Special Requirements:

Bristol Hospital Mandated Educational Requirements:

General orientation at time of hire. Fire/Safety/Infection Control annually. Other programs as mandated by Hospital. 

Physical Requirements:

Physical agility with repetitive occurrence including but not limited to; walking, running, bending, stooping, climbing stairs and ladders, kneeling, crouching, crawling, balancing, reaching, standing, sitting and twisting.  Lifting greater than 50 lbs. as needed throughout the work day.  Visual acuity correctable to normal with normal color perception.  Hearing acuity correctable to normal.  Ability to verbalize so that the average person can comprehend.

Work Environment:

Regular exposure to patient elements, stress, rapid pace with multi-tasking skills.

Cognitive Requirements:

Individual must be able to see objects closely and far away and hear normal sounds with some background noises.  Position requires ability to concentrate on fine detail with interruption and attend to tasks for more than 60 minutes at a time.  Individual must be able to understand and relate to theories behind several related concepts and remember multiple tasks given over long periods of time.  Worker must be able to adjust routine to accommodate patient or department without affecting departmental flow.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.