Echo/Vascular Sonographer- Cardiology (Sugar Land) – Houston Methodist – Houston, TX

The Echo/Vascular Sonographer is an experienced sonographer who regularly, versus occasionally, performs a variety of routine and specialized echo and vascular sonography procedures of moderate to high complexity, in inpatient, outpatient, hospital or clinic environments. Given the nature of the work environment necessitating great flexibility and teamwork, may also perform other job duties typically performed by others such as might be related to transporting patients, admissions and registration, receptionist, physician contact, charting and documentation, patient monitoring, vitals, EKGs, and other as needed. A member of the direct patient care team, is fully competent in all aspects of echo and vascular sonographic procedures. Works independently exercising sound judgment and executing above average clinical skills on challenging procedures and patient care situations, providing direct assistance to physicians. Delivers exceptional patient care, teamwork, and adheres to professional and clinical standards and guidelines to ensure optimal patient safety and customer service.

PATIENT AGE GROUPS SERVED

Refer to departmental “Scope of Service” and “Provision of Care” plans, as applicable, for description of primary age groups and populations served by this job for the respective HM entity.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

PEOPLE – 20%

• Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent patient care information and data in a comprehensive manner. (EF)
• Provides support to co-workers, physicians, patients and family members demonstrating flexibility in performing the activity required to meet the need of the individual. (EF)

SERVICE – 30%

• Performs echo and vascular sonographic procedures as required by the department needs. (EF)
• Provides care for the physical needs of patients by executing various sonographic concepts to maximize performance. This includes: positioning, physiology, procedure preparation, and technical factors. Modifies technical factors to achieve desired imaging results and recognizes complications / limitations associated with certain procedures. Proactively identifies how to address these for optimum outcomes. (EF)
• Provides direct assistance to physicians during procedures, including assisting with sterile technique.
• Performs what is required to meet the needs of patient care which may be one or more of the following: transporting, registration, admissions, answering phones, contacting physicians, taking/monitoring vital signs, EKGs, documenting, etc. (EF)

QUALITY/SAFETY – 30%

• Maintains proper sterile techniques for procedures, regularly practices aseptic techniques, and ensures compliance with infection control procedures. Complies with job, departmental and hospital safety standards, practices and policies. (EF)
• Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement providing recommendations, and contributes to meeting departmental and hospital targets for quality and safety. Reports “near misses” and inputs errors promptly into PSN to improve processes and identify trends.
• Ensures all imaging equipment has had QC performed as required and is in safe working order prior to use. Reports any malfunctions to management and regularly practices preventive maintenance procedures; calls for service if needed. (EF)
• Assists with implementation and education of departmental based safety initiatives and standards of practice.

FINANCE – 10%

• Provides accurate and complete documentation of patient procedures. Enters charges at the time service is delivered. (EF)
• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks.

GROWTH/INNOVATION – 10%

• Participates in departmental projects and shared governance activities.
• Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development as a Technologist.

This job description is not intended to be all inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Graduate of education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s) indicated below

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

At least 3 years of combined echo and vascular experience; may consider HM Echo or Vascular Sonographer with at least 2 years experience