Job Summary:

In accordance with the Purpose, Vision, Values and Coast Salish Teachings, and strategic direction of PHSA, safety, including both patient and employee safety, is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA. As such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

The Ultrasound Sonographer, General Procedures at BC Children’s Hospital performs abdominal, pelvic, peripheral vascular, transcranial head, spine, hips, liver, and renal transplants, elastography, Doppler assessments and small parts ultrasound examinations, while observing patient safety practices. The role performs duties that includes receiving and completing requisitions and entering relevant data into the diagnostic imaging information system, preparing patients for specific procedures, and conducting examinations utilizing ultrasound and Doppler techniques. The role may participate on committees, teams and/or approved research projects as assigned.

Duties/Accountabilities:

1.    Receives and prepares patients for testing by methods such as receiving and completing requisitions, reviewing patients' case history, correlating clinical history with examination to be performed, assessing the nature of the issue to determine a process for testing, determining if a Child Life Specialist should be involved, entering patient information into the diagnostic imaging information system and image processing systems as required, explaining procedures to patients and caregivers, and answering any questions that may arise.
2.    Performs ultrasound procedures on various areas of the body such as abdominal, pelvic, peripheral vascular and small parts by positioning patients, placing the probe on designated areas, utilizing ultrasound and Doppler techniques in accordance with established procedures to obtain images, labelling permanent records and archiving of acquired data.
3.    Performs sterile technique where applicable including intraoperative procedures.
4.    Checks resultant images for technical quality and completeness, prepares technical worksheet if applicable, and discusses images with the radiologist to ensure examinations meet designated requirements.
5.    Facilitates the workflow of designated work area by checking that the information on requisitions meets departmental standards, booking inpatient examinations, and arranging transportation for patients according to departmental procedure.
6.    Monitors equipment performance and performs quality control duties in accordance with departmental standard practice guidelines, including recording results as well as identifying malfunctioning equipment for repair; notifies supervisor of equipment malfunctions according to established procedures.
7.    Demonstrates procedures and usage of equipment to staff including medical residents, technologists and students. Participates in orientation of new employees by monitoring progress, ensuring policies and procedures are respected.
8.    Participates in maintaining patient and hospital records by entering data into the diagnostic imaging and hospital information systems as required.
9.    Participates in approved research and special projects in collaboration with Supervisor and other health care professionals.
10.    Carries out responsibilities in accordance with health and safety requirements.  Immediately reports unsafe situations by notifying supervisor or other appropriate personnel.
11.    Maintains effective communication with patients, their caregivers and hospital staff.
12.    Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience

•    Graduate of a recognized training program in Medical Diagnostic Sonography and certified with Sonography Canada or the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or be certified with Sonography Canada and have passed the Sonography Canada Skills Assessment (CCSA).  

Skills and Abilities

•    Demonstrated knowledge of theory and practice for Sonography procedures including abdominal, pelvic, peripheral vascular and small parts.
•    Demonstrated strong desire to work with children, including neonates, and a desire to become competent in dedicated pediatric ultrasound exams.
•    Demonstrated knowledge of the aseptic techniques and LLD of ultrasound probes.
•    Demonstrated knowledge and practice of safe work procedures with diagnostic sonographic and medical imaging equipment.
•    Demonstrated ability to perform sonographic examinations in compliance with departmental standards.
•    Demonstrated ability to communicate (orally and in writing) and deal effectively with clients and their families, co-workers, physicians, other health care staff, and staff of external agencies.
•    Demonstrated ability to operate related equipment.
•    Demonstrated ability to work independently and in collaboration with others.
•    Demonstrated ability to establish workload priorities in collaboration with others.
•    Demonstrated ability in CPR techniques.
•    Demonstrated computer skills including the ability to effectively use a computerized client care information system.
•    Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.