The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer serves as a medical imaging professional providing clinically relevant information to assist medical providers with the diagnosis and sometimes treatment of diseases and injuries. They utilize ultrasound high-frequency sound waves to take images of the body’s internal organs and tissues to assist doctors with diagnosing and monitoring a variety of conditions and diseases. They will also ensure that the quality of images meet facility standards before the study is released for interpretation.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Works directly with patients and uses sonographic equipment to record images of the motion, shape, and composition of blood, organs, tissues, and bodily masses as well as looking at unborn fetuses in prenatal care.
• Performs clinical assessment and diagnostic sonography examinations.
• Prepares exam room and equipment to conduct examinations in accordance with infectious disease sterilization and patient safety protocols, policies, and procedures.
• Completes the appropriate documentation and maintains patients’ histories and medical records.
• Explains sonographic procedures to patients, answers questions, prepares patients for examination.
• Selects the appropriate settings and adjusts the patients’ positions accordingly to acquire optimum diagnostic imaging.
• Uses cognitive sonographic skills to identify, record, and adapt procedures as appropriate to anatomical, pathological, diagnostic information and images.
• Uses independent judgment during the sonographic exam to accurately differentiate between normal and pathologic findings.
• Analyzes sonograms, synthesizes sonographic information, and utilizes strong interpersonal skills to convey patients’ concerns, medical history, and sonographic findings to the radiologist.
• Identifies and documents any limitations to the sonography examination.
• Evaluates any contraindications, insufficient patient preparation, and the patient’s inability or unwillingness to tolerate the examination.
• Prepares for and assists the Radiologist in the completion of intricate breast examinations, including breast biopsies.
• Coordinates work schedule with Departmental Supervisor and/or scheduling desk to assure workload coverage.
• Assumes responsibility for the safety, mental and physical comfort of patients while they are in the sonographer’s care.
• Maintains ultrasound equipment and work area and maintains adequate supplies.
• Preserves and protects the confidentiality of any information, either medical or personal, acquired through professional contact with the patient and adheres to HIPAA regulations.
• Adheres to OSHA regulations and follows universal precaution guidelines.
• Provides patients services that are within the scope of practice and clinical standards for a diagnostic sonographer.
• Performs other job duties as required by manager/supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Graduate of a formal Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
• Active certification by American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).
• Must have appropriate skills in abdominal, breast, thyroid, retroperitoneal, pelvic, OB and small parts examinations.
• Possesses a sound working knowledge of sonographic techniques, principles, positioning and safety.
• Experience with invasive ultrasound guided biopsies preferred.
• Ability to carry out oral and written instructions regarding imaging procedures.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and sometimes stressful situations, while maintaining a professional demeanor.
• Current documentation of Basic Life Support is required.

LANGUAGE:

• Must be able to read, write, and speak English fluently.
• The ability to speak Chinese (Cantonese or Mandarin) highly preferred.

STATUS:

This is a FLSA non-exempt position.

This is an OSHA high-risk position.

I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and accept this job description and am able to perform these essential job functions without restrictions. I also understand that it may be modified from time to time.

NEMS is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer welcoming diversity in our workforce. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

NEMS BENEFITS: Competitive benefits, including free medical, dental and vision insurance for employee, spouse and/or children; and company contribution to 401(k).