Cardiac Sonographer As-Needed

Company DescriptionAt Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

Job DescriptionPerforms Echocardiography procedures at a technical level not requiring constant supervision of technical detail. The technologist may be involved with patients of the physician in any medical setting for which the physician is responsible. It is a requirement of the position that call be taken as assigned, including evening, weekends and holiday call. This position may include rotation of weekend coverage.

The Cardiac Sonographer provides care that is consistent with the following:

The ARDMS Ultrasound Practice StandardsThe Patient's bill of RightsThe ARDMS Code of EthicsThe Policies and Procedures set forth by

Kishwaukee Community HospitalRESPONSIBILITIESOrganizational Standards of Performance:

Employee is responsible for meeting the Living Our Values—Values & Standards of Behavior Guidelines.

Job Standards:

Technical Duties - Operates the ultrasound equipment with an in-depth knowledge of the machine and a capability of selecting the proper transducer frequency for performance of the examinationUnderstands the use of technology in the documentation of the permanent record.

Maintains quality control of the equipment.

Possesses a high degree of knowledge of anatomy and physiology, evidenced by recognizing the significance of all structures that are visualized and differentiates artifacts from anatomic/pathologic structures, including age specific differences. Handles equipment in a responsible, professional mannerSelects appropriate equipment and proper technical factors on an individual patient basis according to specific orders, and age specific criteria. Assists patient on an individualized basis in assuming physical position for required examination Capable of recognizing a diagnostic scan and rendering an initial interpretation to the referring physician. Able to deviate from normal techniques on difficult cases in order to complete exam.

Patient Duties - Maintains a safe, positive, and professional atmosphere for patient demonstrating interpersonal skills necessary in order to interact effectively with patients of various age and developmental levels who may be under physical or emotional stressGathers and exchanges patient information with nursing personnel and physicians that may affect tolerance or performance of procedureExplains test procedure to patient to elicit cooperation and allay apprehension utilizing age/developmentally appropriate communicationMonitors patient's condition during exam and reports unusual occurrences, including potential signs of abuse, to supervisor, or ordering physicianAssists physicians in performance of other related examinations. Practices sterile techniques and prevents cross contamination Performs emergency examinations at the bedside or in the Emergency DepartmentClerical Duties - Performs a variety of related clerical tasks as necessaryAnswers telephone promptly and courteouslyChecks the requisition for complete information on the procedure requested; refers any questions to the cardiologist before performing procedureAmends order, if necessary, and completes information needed in the computer systemKeeps records on Echocardiograms for cardiologistGeneral/Personal Duties - Prepares exam room, equipment accessories, and materials as needed for various proceduresMaintains orderliness and cleanliness of exam room; keeps room stocked with necessary supplies and accessoriesMaintains professional appearance by adhering to dress and grooming policyConsistently organizes and executes daily tasks in proper priorityReports equipment failure directly to the Technical Director and the service representative Keeps current regarding development in trends and techniques of diagnostic echocardiography by reading technical journals and participating in in-service education programs.

Performance ImprovementUnderstands the hospital PI Program of Focus—PDCA Participates in PI activities through use of idea log and participation in department and/or house-wide PI activities as appropriate

Marginal Functions/Responsibilities:

May be asked to help train new staff.

Takes advantage of opportunities for continuing education as provided by health systemMay assist in the use of a variety of equipment or procedure not routinely performed following orientation to that equipment or procedureDesire for furthering one's education in the various specialties directly related to ultrasoundQualificationsREQUIREDCompletion of ARDMS accredited program specializing in Cardiovascular Ultrasound Experience is necessary in the following areas: Adult and Pediatric Echocardiography; Adult Stress Echos; TEE'sARDMS (RDCS) Registration or eligible and/or an appropriate credential in echocardiography CCI (RCS) - Registered Cardiac Sonographer) within 9 months of employment.

Verbal and written communication skills necessary to understand instructions, medical terminology, and conceptsCommunication skills in order to talk with a patient, family, or hospital staffAbility to use proper body mechanics in lifting, pushing, and pullingAbility to exercise independent judgment in time of need and emergency situationsCommitment to the maintenance of positive and effective working relationships with all hospital personnelKnowledge of abuse/neglectKnowledge of normal characteristics of growth and development through the life span

PREFERRED1 YEAR EXPERIENCE IN HOSPITAL

SETTINGAdditional InformationNorthwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

Background CheckNorthwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person. BenefitsWe offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.

Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus.

Exception:

New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.