Description
Credentialed sonographer who performs diagnostic ultrasound examinations to produce high-quality images for physician interpretation, following RDMS standards, patient-safety protocols, and specialty practices (e.g., abdomen, OB/GYN, small parts).
- • Select and capture diagnostic images, distinguishing normal from pathological appearances.
- • Monitor the display during scanning and optimize settings (gain, depth, focus, TGC) for image quality.
- • Observe and care for patients throughout exams to ensure safety, comfort, and privacy.
- • Provide images and an oral or written technical impression to the interpreting physician.
- • Operate ultrasound systems, including B-mode, Doppler, and color flow, to image organs, tissues, and fluid collections.
- • Choose appropriate transducers and presets and position patients to obtain optimal views.
- • Determine when to extend or modify the exam based on real-time findings and protocols.
- • Document measurements and exam details, complete worksheets, and enter correct exam codes in the RIS.
- • Obtain and record accurate patient history and review prior imaging or clinical results.
- • Prepare patients by explaining procedures, verifying identity and consent, applying gel, and positioning properly.
- • Record and archive images and cine loops in PACS with correct labeling and annotations.
- • Coordinate with physicians and assist during ultrasound-guided invasive procedures.
- • Maintain exam records and quality assurance logs and correlate results with reports, biopsies, or pathology when available.
- • Adhere to legal, ethical, and privacy requirements, including consent, incident reporting, and mandatory reporting.
- • Precept, supervise, or train sonography students and new staff.
- • Manage supplies and prepare sterile or special kits for procedures; reorder as needed.
- • Clean and disinfect transducers, perform equipment QC, and arrange service or minor repairs.
- • Perform clerical duties such as scheduling, verifying orders, and archiving studies.
- • Monitor patient status and provide basic life support (BLS/CPR) or oxygen per policy in emergencies.
- • Maintain RDMS credential and continuing education; follow ALARA and ergonomic safety practices.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
