At Houston Methodist, the Ultrasound/Vascular Technologist I position completes a variety of routine diagnostic and vascular ultrasound procedures to include common and special ultrasound exams of moderate complexity. This position provides direct assistance to physicians with all diagnostic and special ultrasound/vascular procedures. The Ultrasound/Vascular Technologist I position delivers exceptional patient care and adheres to ultrasound exam standards and guidelines established by governing agencies to ensure optimal patient safety and customer service. This position is a member of the direct patient care team.PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent patient care information and data in a comprehensive manner.
Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards department goals for retention and employee engagement.
Communicates effectively with others to facilitate providing the highest quality service during every customer and patient encounter.
SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Performs diagnostic ultrasound procedures to include common and special ultrasound exams. Also able to perform vascular ultrasound exams. Ultrasound exams use high-frequency sound waves to capture images.
Proactively assesses, identifies and responds to the needs of the patient for adjustment or intervention to optimize patient care, image quality and patient experience. This includes: positioning, physiology, procedure preparation, and technical factors. Modifies technical factors to achieve desired imaging results and recognizes complications and limitations associated with certain procedures.
Provides direct assistance to physicians during diagnostic or special procedures, including assisting with sterile technique.
Provides accurate explanations and instructions to patients and family members at an appropriate level utilizing verbal and non-verbal skills, terminology and language.
QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Follows safety standards and conducts all imaging procedures accordingly. Maintains proper sterile techniques for procedures, regularly practices aseptic techniques, and ensures compliance with infection control procedures. Complies with job, department and hospital safety standards, practices and policies.
Reports ¿near misses¿ and inputs errors promptly into appropriate hospital patient safety reporting system to improve processes and identify trends. Contributes to identification of corrective actions and improvement activities, and contributes to meeting department and hospital targets for quality and safety.
Performs daily imaging equipment quality control (QC) ensuring all imaging equipment is in safe working order prior to use. Reports any malfunctions to management and regularly practices preventive maintenance procedures; calls for service if needed.
Utilizes critical thinking skills to observe and proactively address patient reactions (i.e. contrast media and medications) or potential outcomes and obtains assistance, as appropriate.
FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Provides accurate and complete documentation of patient procedures. Enters charges at the time service is delivered.
Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks.
GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Participates in department projects or shared governance activities. Assumes responsibility for growth and development by participating in in-services programs and continuing education.
Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development as a Technologist.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.EDUCATION
Graduate of education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s) indicated below in the Certifications, Licenses and Registrations section.
WORK EXPERIENCE
None
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS - REQUIRED
RDMS-OB - Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - OB/GYN (ARDMS) OR
RDMS-AB - Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - Abdomen (ARDMS) OR
RDMS-BR - Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - Breast (ARDMS) Breast (BR) credential earned prior to June 30, 2010 will be accepted as referenced in ACR guidelines OR
ARRT-SON - Radiologic Technologist - Sonography (ARRT) AND
ARRT-VS - Radiologic Technologist - Vascular Sonography (ARRT) within 18 months OR
RVS - Registered Vascular Specialist (CCI) within 18 months OR
RVT - Registered Vascular Technologist (ARDMS) within 18 months AND
BLS - Basic Life Support (AHA)
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles
Possesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems to include, Hospital / Radiology Information Systems and Office software to maintain patient and exam documents.
Exhibits strong interpersonal and team player skills with all levels of the healthcare team and assures delivery of excellent customer service to all patients, visitors, physicians and co-workers.
Adapts to multiple ongoing priorities with minimal supervision including, organizing work flow and actively participating in problem-solving.
SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTSWORK ATTIRE
Uniform No
Scrubs Yes
Business professional No
Other (department approved) Yes
ON-CALLNote that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. DIsaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.
On Call Yes
TRAVELTravel specifications may vary by department
May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area Yes
May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area Yes
Company Profile:Houston Methodist West Hospital is committed to leading medicine in West Houston, Katy and surrounding communities by delivering the Houston Methodist standard of exceptional safety, quality, service and innovation. The growing campus offers 253 beds and access to the most innovative medical and surgical care available, including cardiology and cardiovascular surgery; neurology and neurosurgery; comprehensive cancer care; orthopedics and sports medicine; gastroenterology; bariatrics; childbirth center with level III NICU; emergency care; and advanced imaging.Houston Methodist is an equal opportunity employer inclusive of women, minorities, disabled persons and veterans.Equal Employment OpportunityHouston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.Equal employment opportunity is a sound and just concept to which Houston Methodist is firmly bound. Houston Methodist will not engage in discrimination against or harassment of any person employed or seeking employment with Houston Methodist on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law. VEVRAA Federal Contractor – priority referral Protected Veterans requested.Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.Equal employment opportunity is a sound and just concept to which Houston Methodist is firmly bound. Houston Methodist will not engage in discrimination against or harassment of any person employed or seeking employment with Houston Methodist on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law. VEVRAA Federal Contractor – priority referral Protected Veterans requested.