Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, Lead-NI

Under direct and indirect supervision, and medical direction of physician section head, performs diagnostic, therapeutic, and biopsy ultrasound procedures. Orients and trains new personel regarding subsection operations as needed, and is responsible for operational, technical and patient care functions within Ultrasound on the Neighbor Islands.

• Performs ultrasound (US) studies and biopsy/aspiration procedures. Positions patients and provides immobilization means and patient counseling as required. Selects proper transducer frequency for performance of study. Reviews orders, prepares schedules and consults with attending Radiologists and Registered Nurses as needed. Recognizes electronic equipment limitations. Recognizes significance of all structures visualized sonographically. Determines artifacts as well as normal anatomy as appropriate for creating a comprehensive final study. Remains able to deviate from normal techniques when necessary to provide wider latitude of visualization. Collaborates with referring physicians to plan or arrange appropriate studies when needed. Maintains daily records of exams performed.


• Protocols orders from Protocol Worklist prior to releasing orders for scheduling; prepares and assigns sonographers work schedules; periodically reviews policies and procedures of section and provides revision as appropriate; assists with development and evaluation of imaging protocols.


• Follows all National Patient Safety Goals.  Receives and double identifies patients using appropriate criteria prior to performing the study ordered. Ensures accuracy of information and data entry, while maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality. Captures required documentation in Radiology Information System (RIS.) Assists with screening patients for contraindications to study or procedure.


• Prepares sterile fields; prepares floor stock medications; ensures sterility of surgical packs, trays and disposables to be used in assigned area. Maintains appropriate operational understanding of transducer/probe disinfectant devices.  Maintains appropriate and adequate supplies during the procedures.


• Assists radiologist during procedures; capturing specific images and assisting with biopsy specimen collection. Operates and understands all features and performance capabilities of the US systems and tranducers/probes.


• Post processes US images and prepares final Sonographer interpretation as required; prepares images for Radiologist interpretation, and transmittals images to the Diagnostic Imaging PACS system.


• Maintains working knowledge of all department equipment and devices. Reports equipment malfunctions appropriately. Conducts equipment performance testing.


• Assumes responsibilities for the needs of patient during procedure. Provides service-oriented communication with patient; explaining procedure; answering questions. Emphasizes a personalized, individualized, compassionate patient care atmosphere at all times.  Dismisses patients for transport and/or assists with patient transport at end of procedure.


• Provides instructions on appropriate safety measures to patients, family members, and hospital / clinic staff as required; ensures appropriate safety precautions are followed. Adheres to policy and manufacturer recommendations for operation and use of personal protection devices when operating disinfectant devices.  


• Functions as part of resuscitation team during Code Blue and/or Rapid Response Team situations.


• Maintains all materials needed and linen supply on daily basis; maintains general order and cleanliness of room assigned.


• Rotates between facilities and shares on call responsibilities for US service areas.


• Orients and trains (mentors) new personnel regarding subsection operations as needed.


• Accepts responsibilities of direct supervision of student technologists during their clinical assignments.


• Pursues ongoing continuing education; remains knowledgeable and current regarding technological advances in field of diagnostic medical sonography; researches, develops and formulates new techniques for ultrasound procedures.


• Attends departmental meetings and/or inservice presentations as needed or required. Reads and initials minutes of such meetings when excused absence precludes attendance.


• Reviews scanning methods and accuracy of subordinate staff. Trains and orients staff sonographers. Monitors work performance by same methods: particularly scanning results,productivity, and reports results to department manager. Corrects inappropriate methods and/or results.