SUMMARY
A Senior Cardiac Sonographer will perform a range of ultrasound echocardiographic studies in clinical, clinical research, or research settings. Will be responsible for performing echocardiographic studies to diagnose a variety of vascular diseases, illnesses, and disorders; and, in addition, will be responsible for performing interventional procedures and conducting heart studies. Exams may include Transthoracic, Exercise, and Pharmacologic Stress Echocardiograms, special procedures, including but are not limited to, echo-guided myocardial biopsied, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy studies, and additional procedures as dictated by research protocols and clinical trials. Will perform inpatient and outpatient echocardiograms and Doppler analysis. Will provide 2-D echocardiograms and transesophageal echocardiograms (TEEs). May also perform vascular studies in the clinic abdominals and bi-lateral venous studies of the legs and additional procedures as ordered. Will insure proper and economical use of equipment, supplies, and other clinical resources employed in the delivery of quality patient care and maintains appropriate records and files. Must provide cross training for personnel from department into echocardiography. Will also provide clinical instructor responsibilities to JHH Ultrasound students and Cardiology fellows. May serve in a teaching capacity for the Johns Hopkins Hospital Ultrasound School.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Cardiovascular Ultrasound Procedures
Maintenance and Care of Ultrasound Equipment and Clinical or Research Environment
Operates and provides advanced care for ultrasound equipment, imagine recording, and storage devices.
Ensures proper functioning of recording devices.
Training and Development
Assists in clinical training and teaching of Cardiac Sonography students, physicians, and other personnel in the principles and techniques of diagnostic echocardiography.
Keeps abreast of current practices and applications of diagnostic cardiovascular ultrasound.
Record Maintenance and Documentation Responsibilities
Patient Care and Comfort Responsibilities
Explains the procedure to the patient and assists patient on and off of the examination table.
Ensures patient’s privacy, safety, and comfort.
Distributes work flow.
Assumes other responsibility necessary (if applicable).
Leads responsibilities for Ultrasound School.
Creates didactic and/or clinical curriculum.
Consistently updates all school records.
Submits all documentation to appropriate MHEC, JRC, or CAHEEP.
Assigns and monitors all clinical rotations.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
Graduation from a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Program (CAAHEP)-accredited Diagnostic Ultrasound program is required. Additional clinical experience or credentials may be considered in lieu of some education. B.S. in Diagnostic Ultrasound preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Advanced sonographic skills are necessary to obtain and document a complete examination or research protocol. High level of analytical ability is needed to obtain appropriate images and required measures for a diagnostic echocardiogram. Interpersonal and communications skills are necessary to provide technical guidance and instruction for cardiac ultrasound interns, clinical and research fellows, and attending physicians. Strong eye/hand coordination skills are required, along with high visual acuity. Ability to proficiently describe clinical findings or developments in research subjects in a timely and comprehensive manner. Must be able to perform transthoracic echocardiograms in a 45 minute time slot in an outpatient setting.
Required Licensure, Certification, On-going Training:
Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) by The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) or Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RSC) by Cardiac Credentialing International (CCI) is required. Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) is preferred by not required. Current CPR Certification is required. The Clinical Sonographers employed through research grants only, not performing any clinical echocardiography services, will be subject to annual review, competencies, and standards as indicated by the specific protocols and investigator criteria, and obtaining registry is strongly encouraged and preferred.
Work Experience:
One (1) to two (2) years of cardiac experience required. Additional experience as a vascular technologist is preferred. Additional education or credentials may be considered in lieu of some experience.
Machines, Tools, Equipment:
Various manufacturers and models of diagnostic ultrasound equipment, digital recording and storage devices, computers and associated hospital software applications, accessory equipment, and other pertinent equipment essential to the department. Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Power, and Excel.
Working Conditions:
Work may require the use of lab coats, hospital standard apparel uniforms, and/or protective clothing, including gowns, gloves, masks, or and eye gear.
