Echocardiogram Technician

PURPOSE AND SCOPE:

The Echo Tech uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound), and other noninvasive echocardiography testing equipment, to produce images of the heart. Operates and adjusts equipment; attaches electrodes to chest and equipment; records cardiac data and measurements; protects and helps patients.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

• Under limited supervision, performs complete and accurate treadmill stress testing and EKG studies under the supervision of cardiologists.
• Ability to set-up and run Treadmill and EKG per protocol for all stress modalities.
• Generate preliminary treadmill stress study reports in accordance to related clinical service protocols.
• Prepares for examinations by checking equipment and inventorying and restocking supplies; reviewing patient schedules; reading physician orders for specific examinations; setting-up recording equipment; entering patient information into system.
• Prepares patients by positioning patient; spreading gels; attaching electrodes to chest and equipment; adjusting equipment controls; verifying wave signals; explains procedures; answers questions; provides assistance to examination table or treadmill.
• Obtains quality images by positioning and repositioning transducer; monitoring display screen; listening to signals; adjusting equipment for beam strength and focus; detecting artifacts that mimic abnormalities; recording images.
• Records examination information by printing graphics and data; calculating measurements of heart wall, chamber size, and blood flow direction and velocity; comparing measurements to norms.
• May escalate issues to supervisor for resolution, as deemed necessary.
• Review and comply with the Code of Business Conduct and all applicable company policies and procedures, local, state and federal laws and regulations.
• Assist with various projects as assigned by direct supervisor.
• Other duties as assigned.

Additional responsibilities may include focus on one or more departments or locations.  See applicable addendum for department or location specific functions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION:

High School Diploma required; Associate's Degree desirable

EXPERIENCE AND REQUIRED SKILLS:

• 2 - 4 years' related experience.
• Basic knowledge of cardiovascular and exercise physiology, required.
• Understanding of EKG recognition and monitoring for abnormal rhythms, required.
• Knowledge of Holter scanning, preferred.
• Current Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) certification, required.
• Current BCLS certification, required.

EO/AA Employer: Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

Fresenius Medical Care North America maintains a drug-free workplace in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.

EO/AA Employer: Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

Fresenius Medical Care North America maintains a drug-free workplace in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.