Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center

Department: Echocardiology

Position is located: Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center

Work Type: Full Time

Hours Per Week: 40.00

Work Schedule: Variable

Summary:

The Cardiac Sonographer is responsible for performing diagnostic-quality echocardiographic studies in a fast paced environment. This is achieved through order verification, patient identification, use and maintenance of equipment, imaging according to policies and protocols, interpretation of findings and creating a preliminary report. In alignment with the mission and vision of Northern Light Health, the Cardiac Sonographer will: Perform proper patient preparation and education which may begin prior to the patient arrival. Collaborate professionally and effectively with members of the interdisciplinary care team, providing safe, quality, efficient patient care across the lifespan, with particular attention to the patient's age-related cognitive, emotional, physical, and functional needs. Be knowledgeable of age specific protocols. Be flexible to cover a variety of shifts with weekend, holiday and non-restricted call duties required as needed. Adhere to hospital policy and professional standards of practice. Must have a high level of interpersonal and communication skills and be a demonstrated team player. Must demonstrate reliability and accountability to team members and patients.

Responsibilities:

• Associates Degree, Certification from an Accredited allied health program that is focused on cardiac ultrasound or met Certification requirements through clinical hours, as well as possess and maintain ARDMS or CCI certification
• Adult Echo Experience in the/an Echo Lab
• Earn and maintain Current BLS Certification
• Demonstrated strong knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology. Basic EKG interpretation skills and arrhythmia detection
• Creates structured reports as needed
• Ensures there is a valid written physician order for the exam
• Places pre-appointment calls to patients the day prior to exam, confirms the appointment with the patient, answers any questions the patient may have
• Learns and maintains core skills, meets all expectations and performs all functions within the Cardiac Sonographer's Scope of Practice: see attachment
• Must be able to meet the physical demands of the unit: lift 10 lbs. with one hand; push and pull heavy computers & equipment on wheels; push wheelchairs/stretchers with 300 pound patients; lift 50 pounds without assistance; maintain a high volume of stooping, bending, lifting, pulling, reaching and twisting; stretch, reach, and retrieve equipment from carts and shelving and bend to reach equipment placed below knee level; possess upper body strength, agility and lung capacity necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation; Ability to stand for long periods of time; ability to wear protective equipment and to pass respiratory protection fit testing; able to perform various sensory requirements such as visual and color acuity, speech, smell, touch, manual dexterity, fine motor skills and hearing in order to perform job duties accurately; able to physically operate various computer systems.

Other Information:

Competencies and Skills

• Behaves with Integrity and Builds Trust: Acts consistently in line with the core values, commitments and rules of conduct. Leads by example and tells the truth. Does what they say they will, when and how they say they will, or communicates an alternate plan.
• Cultivates Respect: Treats others fairly, embraces and values differences, and contributes to a culture of diversity, inclusion, empowerment and cooperation.
• Fosters Accountability: Creates and participates in a work environment where people hold themselves and others accountable for processes, results and behaviors. Takes appropriate ownership not only of successes but also mistakes and works to correct them in a timely manner. Demonstrates understanding that we all work as a team and the quality and timeliness of work impacts everyone involved.
• Practices Compassion: Exhibits genuine care for people and is available and ready to help; displays a deep awareness of and strong willingness to relieve the suffering of others.

Education

• Required Associate's Degree
  • Associates Degree, Certification from an Accredited allied health program that is focused on cardiac ultrasound or met Certification requirements through clinical hours, as well as possess and maintain ARDMS or CCI certification.

Working Conditions

• Work with computers, typing, reading or writing.
• Extend body and limbs to reach items.
• Lifting, moving and loading 30 to 50 pounds.
• Prolonged periods of standing.
• Prolonged periods of walking.