The practice of ultrasonography is performed by an ultrasound technologist responsible for the administration of high frequency sound waves and other diagnostic techniques to humans of all ages (newborn to geriatric) for medical purposes. A Sonographer/Technologist performs ultrasonography procedures and related techniques, producing images at the request of and for interpretation by a licensed independent practitioner. Ultrasonography integrates scientific knowledge, technical skills, patient interaction and compassionate care resulting in diagnostic information. A Sonographer/Technologist recognizes patient conditions essential for successful completion of a procedure.

The Sonographer/Technologists must demonstrate an understanding of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical terminology. The Sonographer/Technologists recognizes patient conditions essential for successful completion of the procedure and exercised independent professional and ethical judgment. The Sonographer/Technologists are the primary liaison between patients, licensed independent practitioners and other members of the support team. The Sonographer/Technologists must remain sensitive to the physical and emotional needs of the patient through good communication, assessment, monitoring, and care skills. Participation in quality improvement processes and continuous assessment of performance is expected.

Sonographer/Technologists think critically and use independent, professional, and ethical judgment in all aspects of work Engagement in continuing education to enhance patient care, public education, knowledge, and technical competence is expected in this role.

The scope of practice for the Sonographer/Technologist includes:

Performing diagnostic ultrasound procedure or examination upon the order of, or for diagnostic interpretation by a licensed independent practitioner (LIP). Determining ultrasonic frequencies and appropriate transducers for the anatomic area of interest. Maintaining records, respecting confidentiality and established policy Applying the principles of patient safety during all aspects of procedures, including assisting and transporting patients. Receiving, relaying, and documenting verbal, written, and electronic imaging orders in the patient’s medical record. Corroborating patient’s clinical history with the ordered procedure while ensuring information is documented and available for use by a licensed independent practitioner (LIP). Verifying informed consent. Assuming responsibility for patient needs before, during, and after procedures. Preparing patients for procedures. Applying principles of ALARA to minimize exposure to patient, self, and others. Performing venipuncture per procedural protocol based on imaging order from a licensed independent practitioner as applicable. Starting and maintaining intravenous access per procedural protocol based on an imaging order for a LIP as applicable. Identifying, preparing, and /or administering medications generally associated with diagnostic imaging procedures as prescribed by a LIP as applicable. Evaluating images for technical quality, ensuring proper identification is recorded. Identifying and escalating emergency situations and managing until appropriate LIP,EMS, MERT, RRT, or Code Team arrives to assume control. Providing patient education related to imaging procedure. Educating, mentoring, and general oversight of students and other learners in the Radiology environment. Participating and/or performing ongoing quality assurance activities.

Essential Job Statements

Independent action(s) required: 
Cardiac Sonographer/Technologists with minimal assistance or independently performs or assist the licensed independent practitioner in the completion of ultrasound imaging exams. 
Cardiac Sonographer/Technologists with minimal assistance or independently complete imaging exams based on physicians written order, department protocols, and institutional safety standards. 
Cardiac Sonographer/Technologist represent the goals, values, and vision of VCU Health System. 
Ensures adherence to regulatory standards, health system and department policies, procedures, processes, and guidelines applicable to role. 
Resolves basic service delivery issues. 

Supervisory responsibilities (if applicable): N/A 

Additional position requirements: 
Individual shift rotation and schedules will be established with your specific manager or supervisor. 
Schedules, including requirements of shift rotations and hours of work may be adjusted as necessary to meet staffing needs of the health system. 
Weekend and other after hours coverage may be required based on workload demand and staffing needs of the health system. 
Sonographer/Technologists are considered “Essential Employees” who may be required to report to work in accordance with the VCUHS Policy. 

Patient Population

Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide equitable care appropriate to the age of the patients served on their assigned unit.    

Demonstrates knowledge and related competencies of the principles of growth and development of the life span and possesses the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to  their age, specific needs and to provide the equitable care needed as described in departmental policies and procedures. 

Infant (1-12 months) 

Pediatrics (1-12 years) 

Adolescents (13-17 years) 

Adults (18-64 years). 

Geriatrics (65 years and older) 

Employment Qualifications

Required Education: 

Graduation from an CAAHEP or CMA Accredited Program in cardiac sonography, or Graduation from a minimum of a 2 year JRC Accredited Program in Cardiac Sonography that is recognized by the ARRT or Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, JRC-DMS or graduation from a Bachelor’s degree program in cardiac sonography. 

Preferred Education: 

Bachelor’s degree in cardiac sonography. 

Licensure/Certification Required: 

Certification by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography [RDCS (AE, PE)], or CCI certification in cardiac sonography. 

For new graduates of qualifying educational programs: Must reach eligibility status for certification test within 12 months of hire date and must pass certification exam within 6 months of reaching eligibility status 

Licensure/Certification Preferred: N/A

Minimum Qualifications 

Years and Type of Required Experience:

Less than 12 months 

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: 

Cultural Responsiveness:

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred: 

Working Conditions

Physical Requirements

Lifting/ Carrying (0-50 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (50-100 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (100+ lbs.), Push/ Pull (0-50 lbs.), Push/ Pull (50-100 lbs.), Stoop, Kneel, Squat, Crawling, Climbing, Balance, Bending 

Work Position: Sitting, Walking, Standing

Additional Physical Requirements/ Hazards

Physical Requirements: Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination), Perform shift work, Maneuver weight of patients, Hear alarms/telephone/tape recorder, Reach above shoulder, Repetitive arm/hand movements, Finger Dexterity, Color Vision, Acuity – far, Acuity – near

Hazards: Depth perception, Exposure to toxic/caustic/chemicals/detergents, Exposure to moving mechanical parts, Exposure to dust/fumes, Exposure to potential electrical shock, Exposure to x ray/electromagnetic energy, Exposure to high pitched noises, Gaseous risk exposure 

Mental/Sensory – Emotional

Mental / Sensory: Strong Recall, Reasoning, Problem Solving, Hearing, Speak Clearly, Write Legibly, Reading, Logical Thinking

Emotional: Fast pace environment, Steady Pace, Able to Handle Multiple Priorities, Frequent and Intense Customer Interactions, Noisy Environment, Able to Adapt to Frequent Change 

Compensation Range

Actual salary offers will be based on several key factors to include relevant work experience, credentials, and qualifications.

EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran