Cardiac Sonographer - UW Health Northern Illinois

POSITION SUMMARY:

Performs echocardiograms, transesophageal echocardiograms, stress echocardiograms (exercise & dobutamine), pediatric echocardiograms, and all other tests as necessary. Able to administer contrast for echocardiogram.

EDUCATION/TRAINING:

Graduate of an accredited sonographer training program preferred.  Previous cardiac sonography experience preferred.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:

Must obtain registration as a Registered Cardiac Sonographer within one year of hire through either the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).  BLS required.

EXPERIENCE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

Familiarity with anatomy of the heart, hemodynamics of the arterial blood flow, color flow physiology, Doppler principles and congenital defects of the heart in adults and children.  Knowledge of cardiac rhythms. Good interpersonal, verbal, written, organizational and critical decision-making skills required. Successful completion of annual clinical, age and job specific competencies and skill validation tools.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Performs complete diagnostic echocardiograms, assists physicians in Transesophageal echocardiograms, intra-cardiac echocardiograms and stress echocardiograms.  Assesses recordings for quality and provides clinical input to the reading cardiologist.

1. Recognizes abnormal EKG patterns and alerts physicians and appropriate staff as needed.

1. Clearly and accurately records patient information into appropriate records, maintaining confidentiality at all times.  Utilizes computer to retrieve patient testing and other appropriate data and information.

1. Monitors patient during tests and performs all aspects of care in an environment that optimizes patient and environmental safety and in accordance with applicable laws, regulations and compliance efforts.

1. Maintains equipment and supplies in good working order and notifies supervisor/manager of necessary repairs.

1. Performs basic life support or other emergency procedures in the event of a cardiopulmonary arrest.

1. Performs and maintains competency in cleaning and high-level disinfection (HLD) of TEE probes.