Echo Technician (Cardiac Sonographer)
Job Title: Echocardiogram Technician / Cardiac Sonographer
Department: Cardiology / Non-Invasive Cardiology
Reports To: Chief Cardiology Technologist / Cardiologist
Detailed Job Description:
An Echo Technician is a specialized sonographer who uses ultrasound technology to create images and videos of the heart (echocardiograms). These tests are crucial for diagnosing and managing heart disease, valve disorders, and congenital heart defects. They work closely with cardiologists to provide comprehensive cardiac assessments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform comprehensive Transthoracic Echocardiograms (TTE), including 2D, M-Mode, Doppler (PW, CW, Color Flow), and Tissue Doppler imaging.
- Assist cardiologists with Transesophageal Echocardiograms (TEE), including probe preparation and patient monitoring.
- Perform Stress Echocardiograms (using treadmill or pharmacological agents) and contrast studies.
- Acquire high-quality images that accurately display cardiac anatomy, function, and hemodynamics.
- Take accurate patient history and explain the procedure to alleviate anxiety.
- Perform preliminary measurements and calculations of cardiac structures and function.
- Ensure all studies are properly archived and preliminary worksheets are prepared for the cardiologist's interpretation.
- Maintain and clean echocardiography equipment according to schedule.
Qualifications and Requirements:
- Mandatory License: Valid MOH / DHA License or Eligibility Letter.
- Education: Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Cardiovascular Technology, Diagnostic Medical Sonography with a cardiac specialization, or a related field.
- Certification: Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) credential from the ARDMS or Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) from CCI is highly preferred and often mandatory.
- Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience performing a full range of adult echocardiography procedures. Pediatric experience is a plus.
Required Skills:
- Expert knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, pathology, and hemodynamics.
- Proficiency in performing all standard echocardiographic techniques and protocols.
- Ability to recognize subtle abnormalities and artifacts.
- Excellent patient interaction skills, especially when dealing with patients who may be critically ill or anxious.
- Strong technical skills and attention to detail.
