Cardiac Echosonographer

**Summary**: Within the context of a patient, client and family centred model of care and, in accordance with the Mission, Vision and Values, and strategic directions of Providence Health Care, promotes a safe, respectful, and civil working environment for patients, residents, families, visitors and staff.

Reporting to the Head Technologist, performs diagnostic ultrasound examinations of the heart (echocardiograms), using 2-D, M-mode, continuous wave, pulsed wave and colour flow Doppler and identifies specific diseases and conditions using sonographic data. Performs contrast studies, bubble studies, stress echoes, and assists the cardiologist with transesophageal studies. The cardiac echosonographer inputs patient data into the echo lab database, participates in quality control of ultrasound systems, participates in multi-disciplinary team meetings and local committees, and provides instruction and/or supervision to students and cardiology fellows as required.

**Qualifications / Skills and Education**: Education
Must be a graduate of a recognized training program in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Cardiac Echosonographer Program) and be certified with either Sonography Canada or the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS); or be certified with Sonography Canada and have passed the Sonography Canada Canadian Skills Assessment (CCSA).

Skills and Abilities
Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
Ability to deal with others effectively.
Current knowledge of cardiac ultrasound procedures and technologies.
Ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
Ability to demonstrate procedures to students and trainees.
Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.
Ability to operate related equipment and systems, including an Enconcert digital acquisition system.
Ability to input specific and relevant patient data into the echo lab database.

Prepares patients for an echo by explaining procedures and explaining related questions.

Performs echoes by attaching electrodes for an ECG and examines the heart in real time 2D, M-Mode, pulsed wave, continuous wave and colour flow Doppler. Performs contrast studies, bubble studies and stress echoes. Assists the cardiologist with transesophageal studies.

Acquires diagnostic cardiac ultrasonic images for interpretation by designated reading cardiologist.

Performs measurements for preliminary interpretation of the echo findings by inputting patient data into the echo lab database.

Participates in quality control of ultrasound systems and related computer equipment by advising the head technologist of any problems or malfunctions.

Participates in staff meetings and assists with the updating of procedure manuals.

Participates in multi-disciplinary team meetings and local committees by attending meetings, collaborating with multi-disciplinary personnel, providing input on issues related to the discipline, and making recommendations as required.

Maintains a broad knowledge of developments in echocardiography by reviewing literature, and participating in professional development activities, workshops and courses.

Provides instruction and/or supervision to students and cardiology fellows, providing guidance and direction on the anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology of the heart relevant to the performance and interpretation of the echocardiograms, as required.

Performs other related duties as assigned.