Sonographer

Performs ultrasound examinations in accordance with department protocols and applicable regulatory
requirements, and assumes responsibility for the safe, efficient and proper operation of ultrasound equipment.
Work is performed with respect to various specialty/sub-specialty areas (i.e. cardiac, general and sub-specialties)
in a variety of healthcare settings. Incumbents may perform echocardiograms only if at S EH.

Incumbents are also accountable for; keeping abreast of FHS standards, protocols and procedures relating to the
department; keeping skills current; demonstrating evidence of continuing education; attending department, local
and national professional meetings; and availing themselves of individualized learning opportunities to stay
current on new procedures, equipment or information.

The Non-Registered Sonographer is a temporary classification for employees who are not currently registered
with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers at the time of hire with a signed exception form.
Employees have one year from date of hire to obtain the requisite registration.

Essential Functions include but are not limited to: 

• 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.

Required Education: 

Graduation with Associates Degree in General diagnostic sonograpghy up hire; 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 skill/abilities. 

Required Licensure: 

Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) upon hire; or

Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) upon hire; or 

Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer Adult Echo (RDCSAE) upon hire; or

Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer Fetal Echo (RDCSFE) upon hire; or 

Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer Pediatric Echo (RDCSPE) upon hire; or

Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Abdomen (RDMSAB) upon hire; or 

Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Breast (RDMSBR) upon hire; or 

Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Neurosonology (RDMSNE) upon hire; or

Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer OB/GYN (RDMSOB) upon hire; or 

Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Pediatric Sono (RDMSPS) upon hire; or

Registered Technologist Radiography ARRT (RTR) upon hire; and

Basic Life Support - CPR (BLS-CPR) through the American Heart Association 

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891. Building upon a legacy of compassionate care and innovation, our organization has evolved over the years through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand our reach and services across the Puget Sound area.

Today, as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we remain deeply committed to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – in the communities we serve. This commitment is strengthened by the diverse expertise and shared values brought together through our growth.

Our dedicated providers offer a full spectrum of health care services, from routine wellness to complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education. Our comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites strategically located across the greater Puget Sound region reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and comprehensive care.

We are proud of our pioneering medical advances and numerous awards and accreditations that reflect our dedication to excellence. When you join Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you become part of a team that delivers top-quality, professional healthcare in modern, well-equipped facilities, and contributes to a legacy of service built on collaboration and shared purpose.