Primary Function
The purpose of this position is to perform ultrasound examinations. Diagnostic technologist must be registered in ultrasound and able to perform all U/S exams. Fully competent and possess a broad knowledge of principles, practices and procedures of the ultrasound field. Supervision will be minimal on day to day activities, conferring with superior on unusual matters. Front desk clerical duties and tasks will be performed as needed.
Job Description
Education/Experience/Requirements
Job Knowledge
Complexity of Duties
The work involves independent performance of many types of ultrasonic scans under the general direction of the Radiologist. The examination process requires the incumbent to recognize the lesions, masses or disease processes which are the object of the examination in order to adjust the image or take additional scans to achieve optimum visualization of affected areas. Imaging procedures, which are complex and intricate, as the instrument selection factors must be tailored to each patient body habitus, correlated with anatomical area of clinical concern. Diagnostic quality markedly affected by the incumbent’s ability to maximally utilize equipment capabilities and to extrapolate relevant visual images on the screen to the recorded exam.
Supervision Received
Incumbent will work under minimal supervision of the Radiology Manager and any requested guidance of the Radiologist. The Radiology manager provides detailed instructions on new procedures and techniques, and advises on technical problems. Work is spot checked for diagnostic value and for methods used in conduction the examinations. The employee must maintain up-to-date knowledge of developments in the fields of Ultrasonography to recommend new methods, examinations and guidelines for adoption. Procedures change frequently due to new developments and technology in the field.
Key Competencies under minimum supervision:
Responsibility for Accuracy
The purpose of the work is to provide diagnostic Ultrasound images for diagnosis and treatment to patients. The effect of the incumbent’s performance of duties directly correlates to proper diagnosis and/or treatment. Clear and accurate studies are essential to enable the physician to evaluate and treat for patient’s conditions
Contacts with Others
Personal contacts are with patients, patient’s family, and co-workers within the department and in the hospital, Radiologist, Physicians and other professional workers. Personal contacts are for the purpose of performing the radiologic exam ordered by the physicians. Contacts with co-workers are to exchange information to resolve problems with equipment, procedures and rescheduling patients and to coordinate work with other technologist when working on procedures, which may require more than one technologist or a team effort. Contact with patients are to explain the procedure to be performed, patients who are unfamiliar with Ultrasound examinations and to direct patients on how to move to achieve correct positioning. Some patients are seriously ill, injured or nervous. This may require the incumbent to provide reassurance and comfort. Contacts with professionals outside the department are to demonstrate and explain practical problems and procedures in taking radiographic procedures. Contact with the Radiologist, in addition to receiving instructions, are to coordinate work efforts to resolve problems. Contacts with other health care of related disciplines within the hospital, along with outside providers, for the purpose of sharing images, confirming orders or diagnosis to ensure quality care for our patients.
Internal professional contacts include the department directors, coworkers, governmental agencies, vendors and the public to exchange and/or provide information. Interpersonal skills are required along with tact, decorum, and professional etiquette. Incumbent will consistently demonstrates customer service skills and care to patients and internal/external customers by displaying Right Way behaviors and skills.
Confidential Data
The incumbent has access to highly confidential patient medical and personal information. The Privacy Act of 1974 mandates that the incumbent shall maintain complete confidentiality of all administrative, medical and personnel records, and all other pertinent information that comes to his/her attention or knowledge. The Privacy Act carries both civil and criminal penalties for unlawful disclosure of records. Violations of such confidentiality shall be cause for adverse action.
Mental/Visual/Physical
There are long periods of standing, walking, bending and carrying of moderately heavy items, stretchers, wheelchairs and patients. Considerable physical efforts involved in pushing and positioning of patients who are unable to assist or cooperate and lifting of totally incapacitated patients should only be done with the help from other employees.
Close attention to detail and mental concentration for extended periods of time are required. This is a multi-tasking position, which is subject to frequent interruptions requiring varied responses. Must deal with multiple situations concurrently. Must have ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Must frequently use creative thinking to complete tasks or solve problems. Physical efforts require mobility, reaching, bending, manual dexterity, and visual acuity. Must be able to lift at least 50lbs.
Environment
The work environment is in a restricted access area. Will be exposed to moveable equipment, chemical fumes, patients with contagious diseases, electrical equipment, ionizing radiation, and contamination or infection through accidental needle puncture or exposure to blood and/or body fluids. Occasional exposures to odor, blood, chemical irritation, and a variety of constant interruption. Area is supplied with personal protective equipment. Area has appropriate light and is temperature controlled. Telephone and computer access are adequate for communications. There may be occasions when overtime is required. Will be necessary to work when Administrative leave is granted if patient care would be compromised.
Customer Service
Consistently demonstrates superior customer service skills to patients/customers by demonstrating characteristics that align with CIHA’s guiding principles and core values. Ensure excellent customer service is provided to all patients/customers by seeking out opportunities to be of service.