Vascular Sonographer, PRN - Scheduled as needed

Main Function

The Vascular Technologist (VT) reports to the Vascular Lab Supervisor and performs all required ultrasound and clinical evaluations at a technical level requiring limited supervision. The VT maintains a high standard of medical ethics at all times and is self-motivated to increase the level of understanding and knowledge of the field of vascular disease and new procedures as they evolve.

Duties and Responsibilities

• PRN - Vascular Sonographer position for our UMMC Downtown and Midtown Campus Vascular Labs; variable shifts as needed.
• Performs clinical assessment and diagnostic vascular laboratory examinations (including duplex imaging of lower and upper extremity arteries and veins; abdominal vessels: aorta/renal/hepatic/IVC; carotid and intracranial arteries; physiological examinations utilizing photoplethysmograpy, segmental and digital blood pressures and treadmill exercise testing) by properly operating complex ultrasound equipment, cameras, recorders and other patient assessment equipment such as Doppler and duplex ultrasound machines. Selects appropriate equipment and transducer frequency/size for proper examination. Correctly identifies and records appropriate anatomical, pathological and diagnostic images. Differentiates normal from abnormal and recognizes artifacts.
• Accurately documents and communicates test findings to appropriate personal by:
  • Reviewing each completed examination for completeness, technical accuracy and proper accurate measurements.
  • Reporting abnormal results immediately to referring physicians, being sure to document particulars regarding such communication in the patient's chart and in the hospital and laboratory record systems according to hospital and department policy and procedure.
  • Explaining disease patterns and writing preliminary interpretations of test results for nursing personnel and physicians.
  • Preparing hard copies of test results on appropriate report forms for interpretation and signature by the Director of the laboratory.
  • Completing consultation sheets recording results of exams, including VT's technical impressions, for both inpatients and outpatients in accordance with departmental and hospital procedure.
• Assumes responsibility for the safety, mental and physical comfort of patients under the VT's care. Identifies each patient and reviews each patient's requisition for consistency of examination ordered with clinical diagnosis and all demographic information. Assesses patient condition through record review, communication with attending personal and patient interviews to identify proper patient care practices. Prepares patients for examination and explains procedures to patients. Utilizes special equipment and/or procedures as necessary.
• Understands and utilizes a variety of computer systems within the laboratory and hospital during the performance of duties as necessary.
• Assists supervisor in overseeing duties of department secretary/clerical staff by answering questions and providing general directions. Assists with patient scheduling, forwarding reports to director for approval, billing processes, filing, etc. as necessary.
• Performs assigned duties in a manner that ensures the quality and continuity of patient care within the vascular laboratory. Follows protocol and is able to deviate from standard techniques when clinically necessary. Facilitates thorough, cooperative, safe and efficient workflow in the vascular laboratory. Understands when to seek advice.
• Maintains adequate supplies. Ensures that equipment and work areas are kept in clean conditions and proper working order. Reports all safety hazards and/or equipment malfunctions to supervisor immediately. Interacts on a technical level with internal biomedical engineering personnel when assessing equipment problems and with external medical service representatives when demonstrating new equipment.
• Supports the laboratory accreditation/reaccreditation processes according to requirements of Intersocietal Commission of Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICVAL) and the Joint Commission.
• Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills necessary in communicating with departmental staff, hospital personnel, physicians, patients, family members and visitors. Establishes and maintains ethical working relationships and good rapport with all interrelating hospital, referral and commercial agencies.
• Maintains current credentials and updates technical expertise in the field of ultrasound and vascular technology by participating in conferences, symposia and seminars and reading relevant technical literature.
• Demonstrates, as identified in the department specific competency plan:
  • The technical competence necessary to provide quality care to specific populations, including age
  • The ability to assess the developmental needs of age specific populations
  • The ability to use equipment in a safe and proper manner
• Demonstrates support and compliance with UMMS mission, vision, values, philosophy, goals, objectives and polices.
• Performs other work related duties as assigned.