• Demonstrates technical proficiency with operation of cardiac ultrasound machine and all controls affecting the quality of the received signals.
• Demonstrates proficiency in positioning and directing ultrasound transducer to obtain desired tomographic images and Doppler flow velocity signals during image acquisition.
• Performs complete examination including all elements of echocardiographic study.
• Records and recognizes the electrocardiogram for correlation with the echocardiographic data.
• Recognizes abnormalities of anatomy and flow to modify standard examination to accommodate perceived diagnostic needs.
• Consistently demonstrates the ability to distinguish an adequate from an inadequate echocardiographic examination.
• Demonstrates knowledge of fluid dynamics, pathological changes in cardiac anatomy and cardiac blood flow due to acquired and congenital heart disease.
• Utilizes knowledge of physical principles of echocardiographic image formation and blood flow measurement in echocardiogram imaging.
• Accurately records 2-dimensional measurements performed in the course of a transthoracic echocardiogram to include, but not limited to (except where technically unobtainable), measurements of the left ventricular internal dimension at end-diastole, the left ventricular internal dimension at end-systole, the left ventricular posterobasal free wall thickness at end-diastole, ventricular thickness at end-diastole, the left atrial dimension at end-diastole and the aortic root dimension at end-diastole. Doppler evaluation and hemodynamic data should include, but not limited to, the evaluation of Doppler gradients and valvular stenosis and regurgitation as warranted by the testing indication and pathology.
• Notifies the registered nurse and/or cardiologist covering Cardiac Testing when resting cardiac abnormalities are observed in the resting stress echo per Department protocol prior to proceeding with the initiation of stress testing.
• Acquires peak stress echocardiographic images within two minutes post exercise.
• Notifies cardiologist immediately of life-threatening conditions such as cardiac tamponade, aortic dissection.
• Accepts on-call responsibilities for emergent echocardiograms required after hours when the department is closed, as assigned by the Senior Cardiac Sonographer.
• Educates patients, families, students and observers about cardiac sonography procedures prior to and during testing.
• Disinfects all equipment after each patient per department protocol.
• Disinfects transesopahgeal probe after each patient per department protocol.
• Notifies Echo Lab Supervisor of equipment problems/malfunctions for immediate repair.
• Participates in Department Quality Assurance monitors/programs.
• Participates and utilizes AGHS patient satisfaction initiatives.
• Participates in intermittent peer review (cardiologist and sonographers) of performance of studies to determine quality, accuracy and appropriateness of the examination.
• Enters patient data and charges into computer terminal accurately and regularly.
• Obtains continuing education credits in the field of cardiac sonography annually. (Must complete at least 30 hours every three years.)
• Reviews test results and reports to ensure information is accurate prior to sending the report to the physician.
• Participates in community outreach events sponsored by AGMC/HVC.
• Completes mandatory education and training in order to maintain organization and department specific competencies and requirements. Maintains applicable certification/licensure. Maintains CPR (BLS). (Job Specific competency: RCS or RDCS from ARDMS within two years of hire/transfer.)
• Follows hospital and department policies and procedures with special attention to attendance and punctuality, confidentiality, dress code, and display of ID badge, and safety.
• Other duties as assigned

Education:

• Training program that must be accredited by the commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Completes at least 30 continuing education hours in the field of cardiac sonography every three years.

Certifications:

• Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) through Cardiovascular Credentialing Inc. Or RDCS through American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).
• Maintains current Basic Cardiac Life Support (BLS).

Complexity of Work:

• Maintains competencies specific to patient population served.
• Strong written and verbal skills.

Work Experience:

• Successful completion of a cardiovascular technology program which includes verified didactic and supervised clinical experience in cardiac echocardiography.
• Or Twelve months of echocardiography clinical experience with the performance of at least 600 echocardiogram/Doppler examinations.

Physical Requirements:

Personal Protective Equipment:

• Follows standard precautions using personal protective equipment as required