Covenant Health

Ultrasound Technologist

PRN/OCC, Variable Hours & Shifts

Fort Sanders Regional Overview:

Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical expertise with advanced medical technology to deliver exceptional care. As a Joint Commission Comprehensive Stroke Center, we provide leading-edge treatment for stroke recovery. Our facility also offers specialized services in bariatric surgery, robotic surgery, minimally invasive spine procedures, and advanced orthopedic care.

Fort Sanders Regional is part of Covenant Health, East Tennessee’s largest nonprofit health system and a Becker’s “Top 150 Places to Work in Healthcare.” Covenant Health includes nine hospitals and nearly 150 service locations, offering employees a comprehensive benefits package with tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, certification bonuses, and leadership development programs.

Position Summary:

Performs physician defined routine and specialized ultrasound procedures.  Performs complex tasks associated with the operations of ultrasound equipment to produce high quality ultrasound images.  The ultrasound technologist is responsible for maintaining a safe ultrasound environment at all times.

• Performs procedures or examinations under the order of a licensed medical practitioner for diagnostic interpretation.
• Ensures the sonography examination order is complete, contains relevant information.
• Conducts patient clinical assessment.
• Obtains and documents pertinent clinical information and technical findings for review by physician for order clarification and follow-through.
• Identifies and documents any limitations to the sonography examination.
• Reviews examination images, synthesize examination results, and prepare preliminary findings for physician prior to physician interpretation.
• Documents any incidental findings that might impact patient safety or patient care.
• Demonstrates competency in critical thinking skills, including demonstration of competency in addressing the age-specific needs of the patient population served.
• Follows established processes for supply charging, stock maintenance and vendor ordering.
• Performs complex tasks associated with the operation of an ACR accredited Ultrasound Department and related equipment to produce high quality ultrasound images.
• Selects appropriate associated equipment/data manipulation to achieve desired results with factors influencing data acquisition.
• Technically proficient in the operation and quality control aspects of scanning and image recording equipment specific to the assigned work area.
• Identifies and screens patient and obtains patient history, completes and verifies accurate consents, informed consent and/or permits as needed.
• Performs quality imaging procedures through technical expertise of equipment and procedure protocols.
• Assists physicians with US procedures when needed. Follows the Joint Commission procedures regarding medication preparation/usage on patient for minimally invasive procedures.
• Follow policy regarding time out prior to minimally invasive procedures being performed.
• Practices aseptic technique and uses universal precautions. Applies appropriate infection prevention techniques and processes.
• Provides patient instructions/education to obtain desired results, gain cooperation and minimize anxiety during exams.
• Positions patient for ultrasound imaging using immobilization and protective equipment to minimize risk to patient, self and others.
• Positions patient and equipment to best demonstrate the anatomic area of interest, respecting the patient’s ability, safety and comfort.
• Provides for psychological and physical needs of patients for ultrasound imaging procedures. Proficient in patient assessment and monitoring.
• Adheres to the facility policies and procedures, ACR regulations, The Joint Commission standards and other regulatory compliance for ultrasound department/facility.
• Provides patient services consistent with the Scope of Practice and Clinical Standards for Diagnostic Sonographer.
• Assumes responsibility for patient needs during procedures and assists patients, families, practitioners and visitors, as needed.
• Completes required education assignments annually.
• Proficient in required data entry, record maintenance and statistical data and in the operation and quality control aspects of scanning and image recording equipment specific to the assigned work area.
• Maintains patient’s confidential records, reports and files, following established HIPAA guidelines.
• Stays current in Basic Life Support (BLS) and performs BLS as needed.
• Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education:         

Must be sufficient to meet the standards for achievement of the below indicated license and/or certification as required by the issuing authority at the time license and/or certification was obtained.

Minimum Experience:         

Must have successfully completed an accredited ultrasound educational program and be registry eligible.

Licensure Requirement:      

Must obtain ultrasound specific registration within 1 year from date of hire in either ARDMS, ARRT, or CCI.  State licensure in accordance with Tennessee guidelines.