In 2020 united in a fierce commitment to deliver the highest quality care and exceptional patient experience Virginia Mason and CHI Franciscan Health came together as natural partners to build a new health system centered around the patient: Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. Our combined system builds upon the scale and expertise of our nearly 300 sites of care including 11 hospitals and nearly 5000 physicians and providers. Together we are empowered to make an even greater impact on the health and well-being of our communities.

Prepares/operates a variety of diagnostic ultrasound equipment in accordance with American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) standards and department protocols.

• Operates ultrasound equipment to produce and record images of the motion, shape and composition of blood, organs, tissues and bodily masses such as fluid accumulations.
• Determines correct techniques to obtain images of the highest quality and resolution.
• Performs quality control checks of sonographic equipment; troubleshooting breakdowns; maintaining supplies; performing preventive maintenance procedures and backs up computer software and data.
• Cleans, checks and maintains sonographic equipment; submits maintenance requests or performs minor repairs as necessary.
• Evaluates new ultrasound products and equipment.

Delivers patient care for all age groups while performing ultrasound exams/procedures and/or special procedures.

• Facilitates diagnoses by producing, assessing, and evaluating ultrasound images and related data used by physicians to render a medical diagnosis.
• Regularly performs basic functions; obtains and records accurate patient history, including prior test results and information from physical examinations; prepares patient for exam by explaining procedure, transfers patient to ultrasound table, scrubs skin and applies gel, and positions them properly to get the best image.
• Relays emergent exam results promptly to the appropriate physician or medical floor.
• Responds to emergency situations consistent with scope of authority.
• Determines suitable areas for needle aspirations and/or tissue biopsies for pathologic diagnosis.
• Determines provisional diagnoses and participates (along with supervising Radiologist) in the final exam diagnosis.
• Advises nursing staff of any significant change in patient’s condition while in Diagnostic Imaging.

Performs general office duties department operations to include; answering phone; scheduling; filing; maintaining patient records; ordering supplies.

• Participates in the ordering and inventorying of equipment and supplies.
• Ensures patient data is entered correctly and that patients are billed appropriately.
• Maintains accurate patient records by documenting the patient chart with pertinent information.
• Assists with quality assurance/improvements audits and activities as required.

Participates in the formal training of ultrasound interns.

Job Knowledge/Abilities:

• Knowledge of the current principles, procedures and techniques relating to ultrasound examination and related procedures.
• Knowledge of the functionality, operation and application of ultrasound equipment.
• Knowledge of the standards and regulatory requirements applicable to diagnostic ultrasound examination.
• Knowledge of the content and application of department protocols applicable to ultrasound examinations.
• Ability to perform procedures in strict compliance with applicable standards, and provide assistance to physicians in executing some techniques (ultrasonic needle guidance).
• Ability to read, understand and communicate in English sufficient to perform the duties of the position.
• Ability to use office equipment and automated systems/applications/software at an acceptable level.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as required by the duties of the position.

Education/Work Experience Requirements

Associates degree from an accredited training program in General diagnostic sonography, and recent completion of a twelve-month internship in diagnostic ultrasound (with at least six months in General ultrasound) or equivalent recent directly-related work experience that demonstrates attainment of the requisite job knowledge skills/abilities.

Licensue/Certification

• Registration with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS); or
• Certification in Sonography by the American Association of Radiology Technologists (ARRT)..
• Current healthcare provider BLS Certification.