Cardiac Sonographer

Summary

Performs echocardiography tests/procedures in accordance with the American Society of Echocardiography standards.

Job Description

Prepares patients for exams by explaining procedures, transferring patients to the ultrasound table, applying gel, and positioning patients properly. Operates the ultrasound equipment to produce and record images of the motion, shape, and composition of blood, organs, tissues, or bodily masses, such as fluid accumulations. Performs the echocardiogram and oral and/or written preliminary summary of technical findings to interpreting physician for use in medical diagnosis.

Thoroughly understands the operation of the ultrasound machine and utilizes new sonographic technologies when needed. Performs routine cardiac ultrasound procedures in a clinic, hospital, and mobile sites depending on location. Interacts professionally and effectively with fellow health care professionals. Assists in the submission and/or maintenance of Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) accreditation when necessary.

Supervises or trains students and cardiac sonographers as needed. Adheres to safety and infection control policies established by Sanford. Adheres to established internal standards and procedures abstracted from Health Insurance Portability and Accountability (HIPAA).

Additionally, based on the facility, some Sanford markets/facility sites may expand job responsibilities to include ultrasonography.

Qualifications

When working or hired in South Dakota: Graduate from an accredited two-year Cardiac Ultrasound Program required.

When working or hired in North Dakota: Graduate from an accredited school of cardiac sonography program or one year work experience in cardiac sonography preferred. On the job training may be considered with appropriate leadership approval and must have an allied health certificate/diploma in an imaging modality to be considered for on the job training.

When working in Minnesota: Graduate from an accredited two-year Cardiac Ultrasound Program OR a bachelor's degree and one year equivalent work experience required.

When working in all other states: Minimum of one year equivalent work experience or an allied health certificate/diploma required.

When working or hired in South Dakota: American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), or registry eligible is required within 12 months into the position. Leadership may require this to be obtained in less than 12 months depending on needs of the department.

When working in all other states: Credentialed with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT), American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS), or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), or registry eligible is required within 18 months of hire. Leadership may extend this time depending on department needs.

If working in North Dakota and performing medical imaging or radiation therapy procedures, licensure through the North Dakota Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (NDMIRT) Board is required.

For employees who provide outreach mobile services, maintenance of a valid driver's license and good driving record is required. This may include passenger on flights and occasional overnight stays at assigned sites.

Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within six weeks of employment and re-certification as necessary is required.