Description
Perform transthoracic, stress, and transesophageal echocardiography to obtain and analyze ultrasound images and Doppler data of the heart and great vessels, providing technical findings to cardiologists for diagnosis and patient management.
- • Review indications and cardiac history, prior studies, and relevant vitals or labs.
- • Explain procedures; obtain necessary consents; position patient and attach ECG leads.
- • Select transducer and presets; optimize depth, gain, focus, and Doppler settings.
- • Acquire standard transthoracic views: parasternal, apical, subcostal, and suprasternal.
- • Record 2D, M-mode, color, spectral, and tissue Doppler images and loops.
- • Decide which images to include, documenting normal and pathological findings.
- • Monitor image quality during scanning; adjust technique and patient position as needed.
- • Perform quantitative measurements: chamber sizes, wall thickness, ejection fraction, valve gradients and areas, and hemodynamics.
- • Identify and document abnormalities such as valvular disease, cardiomyopathy, shunts, pericardial effusion, or thrombus.
- • Extend or modify protocols based on findings or physician request.
- • Perform contrast or bubble studies per protocol; monitor and document patient response.
- • Perform or assist with stress echocardiography, monitoring ECG and capturing required stages.
- • Assist with transesophageal or intra-procedural echo, providing imaging support and patient monitoring.
- • Prepare preliminary technical reports and measurements for cardiologist interpretation.
- • Archive images and reports in PACS/EMR; maintain quality assurance and accreditation records.
- • Coordinate with cardiologists, nurses, and other team members for procedures and scheduling.
- • Observe and care for patients throughout exams; follow safety and infection control practices; initiate CPR if needed.
- • Clean, check, and maintain ultrasound systems and probes; arrange service and perform minor troubleshooting.
- • Maintain supplies, including contrast agents, ECG electrodes, and gel; prepare for special exams.
- • Train or mentor students and new sonographers.
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Healthcare & Human Services
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
