Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Clinical/Technical

To work as part of a team throughout the Trusts ultrasound departments as indicated on the weekly timetable. Performing clinical ultrasound examinations unsupervised and issue reports for examinations performed for a broad range of patients, from all sources of referral.

To carry out all ultrasound examinations unsupervised to the highest possible standard in line with departmental procedures and protocols.

Issue written reports on scan findings in a clear and concise way recommending follow up within agreed timescales, referral and further imaging as appropriate.

Demonstrate skills in a wide range of ultrasound examinations according to qualification, with regard to obstetric and gynaecological and general abdominal examinations, and be able to perform scans on high risk patients, and of a complex nature.

To report faults, defects and breakdown of fixtures and fittings to the section lead or Radiology Manager.

Ensure correct patient and clinical details are entered into radiology system, ultrasound equipment and archive.

To participate in quality control programmes for ultrasound equipment as required.

Managerial

Manages own personal daily departmental schedules ensuring all exams are managed within agreed departmental/Trust timeframes.

Assists with organisation of departmental ultrasound referrals where appropriate, ensuring patient flow is maintained.

To assist with the setup of procedures and protocols when necessary.

To cover for colleagues at short notice ensuring all patient examinations are delivered in a timely manner.

To be part of a team managing adhoc/urgent referrals as required.

Education/Development/Training

To lead in the practical teaching and supervision of trainee sonographers, in all modalities, for approximately six practical sessions per week.

Participate in the clinical/practical training of medical staff.

Maintain an individual CPD folder, illustrating that levels of clinical skills are maintained.

Attend radiology/MDT clinical meetings and contributes to patient care.

Participate in the training of student radiographers/radiographic aides/assistant practitioners.

Ensure knowledge is kept up to date by regular attendance at study days, reading literature and in-house clinical meetings.

Attend all statutory training on a yearly basis.

To participate in appraisals and personal reviews and work to achieve agreed set objectives.

Clinical Governance (Policies, Complaints, H/S)

To work within and adhere to standard and operations policies/protocols relating to the Trust and radiology department.

To participate in clinical audit.

To adhere to all safety regulations with regards to Health and Safety regulations and COSHH Regulations.

To be aware of issues of RSI, and ensure your individual system of work minimises risk to self and others.

Communication

To communicate effectively with patients and their relatives adapting techniques to the needs of the patient.

To communicate scan findings to patients, relatives and clinicians, including findings related to early pregnancy loss and foetal abnormalities, and other information of a sensitive nature.

Liaise with ultrasound booking clerk to maintain an efficient system of patient throughput.

Maintain a computerised and paper based record for patients attending for clinical examinations.

Maintain good working relationships with radiographers, radiologists, departmental support staff and out-patient staff.