Pediatric Cardiac Sonographer - Pediatrics Cardiology

Position Summary
Perform high quality pediatric and adult congenital echocardiograms following outlined pediatric echo protocols. The sonographer will be responsible for the independent operation of sonographic equipment, performing all exams and discussing a summary of findings to the physician. Also perform related cardiology non-invasive diagnostic cardiology testing. Assist in the mentoring and training of faculty, fellows, staff sonographers and students. Participate in continuing medical education programs.
Assist in Heart Station (CQI) continuous quality improvement process as outlined in the Heart Station Quality Assurance Protocol.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

Perform pediatric and adult congenital echocardiograms in accordance with department standards

• Perform and analyze Pediatric and Adult Congenital Echocardiograms; requiring an extensive knowledge of cardiac anatomy and physiology to ascertain diagnosis of complex congenital heart disease in the pediatric and adult congenital patient population.
• Demonstrate proficiency in the performance of all procedures and competency as outlined in the pediatric sonographer position guidelines. Perform these complex diagnostic exams and discusses findings with the pediatric cardiologist.
• Demonstrate the ability to utilize the computer programs and databases in regards to work flow in accordance with department standards.

Perform non-invasive testing

• EKGs
• Holter Monitor and Cardiac Event Monitor testing
• Cardiovascular Stress Testing
• Stress Test Gas Analysis
• Stress Echo

Work with and assist physicians with special procedures

• Trans esophageal Echocardiograms; in-patient, ambulatory procedure center, operating rooms
• Provide echocardiographic guidance during, Heart Biopsies, Pericardial Centesis, atrial septostomy and trans-catheter device placement.
• Sedated Echocardiograms
• Dobutamine Stress Echocardiograms

Participate in continuing education programs

• Attend weekly lectures related to Pediatric  and Adult Congenital Echocardiography or Pediatric Cardiology
• Coordinate and /or assist with presentations of technologic updates or conference summaries.
• Maintain credentials with ARDMS or CCI by fulfilling the required accredited continuing medical education activities.
• Maintain certification and can deliver basic cardiac life support (BCLS).

Training and mentoring

• Participate with training, mentoring and orientation duties for new faculty, fellows, staff sonographers and students.
• Training programs will be approved by the Heart Station Medical Director and Heart Diagnostic Services Manager and be in accordance with the American Society of Echocardiography Committee on Education and Training and IAC.

Heart Station CQI; continuous quality improvement process

• Assist in maintaining equipment, document necessary repairs in the Heart Station Equipment Log, and report to the Heart Diagnostic Services Manager
• Participate in Quality Assurance process for Intersocietal Accreditation Commission      

Service excellence responsibilities

• Treat patients and families with care, respect and professionalism.
• Maintain patient privacy at all times abiding by HIPAA privacy standards. Provide patients and families with clear and accurate information while informing them of the testing.
• Take action to continuously improve service.
• Respond consistently to the needs of referring physicians and other health care professionals who are participating in the patient’s care.
• Create a positive work environment by treating all co-workers, students and physicians with dignity and respect.

Working Conditions  

Heart Station Lab is based in a pediatric hospital. This position must move heavy portable equipment and occasionally travel to outreach clinics. Follow universal precautions standard guidelines are adhered to with all patients; with considerate special attention to high risk patients.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in an allied health education program that is patient-care related; or Bachelor’s degree in sonography or a clinical science/health related program; or Graduation from an accredited sonography program specializing in echocardiograph.
• Five years of full-time experience in echocardiography with pediatric emphasis.
• Ability to perform all facets of non-invasive cardiology tests, as outlined in section one.
• Ability to work and function independently.
• Knowledge of computer systems is necessary.
• Ability to maintain a good rapport with pediatric and adult patients and their families is essential.
• Maintain a professional manner with respect to interaction with physicians, nurses and other involved personnel to provide exceptional patient care.

Required Qualifications

• Possess a thorough understanding of normal and abnormal cardiac anatomy, normal and abnormal cardiac function and hemodynamics, qualitative and quantitative aspects of echocardiograms, and anatomy and pathophysiology of disease processes.
• Credentialed RDCS (Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer) certificate or RCS (Registered Cardiac Sonographer) certificate in pediatric or adult echocardiography through one of the examinations recognized by ARDMS or CCI must be obtained within one year of hire

Grade
C13-H

Salary Range
$32.08 - $49.73 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ .

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

• Want to Live Near Your Work and/or improve your commute? Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees. We also offer a forgivable home loan of up to $12,500 for closing costs and a down payment for homes in eligible neighborhoods.

• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.