Job Description

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

The Breast Sonographer reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

• Performs diagnostic ultrasound procedures according to department standards and protocols. Adheres to and fosters the "Patients First" philosophy and acts to advance the principle objectives to providing services with full respect for the dignity of the patient.

Sign-On Bonus:

• We are extending a $5,000 sign-on bonus to full-time external Breast Sonographers hired at Northwestern Memorial Hospital! This bonus is payable in one installment following the new employee's start date and has 12-month repayment terms associated.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform breast ultrasound examinations using accepted standards of practice; select appropriate imaging parameters to produce high-quality diagnostic images while minimizing patient exposure.

• Review patient history and physician orders; evaluate imaging requests and determine appropriate examination protocols and techniques.

• Operate ultrasound equipment, transducers, and accessories to ensure accurate positioning, exposure, and image quality assurance.

• Observe, assess, analyze, and communicate pertinent clinical findings to support physician diagnosis and treatment planning.

• Assess patients and provide care throughout procedures in accordance with department, hospital, and age-specific patient care standards.

• Educate patients before, during, and after examinations using verbal and/or written materials to reduce anxiety and promote comfort and cooperation.

• Perform patient introductions and ensure accurate patient identification using established protocols.

• Exercise professional judgment, discretion, and accountability while acting in the patient’s best interest.

• Monitor patient condition continuously during procedures and report changes or concerns to the physician.

• Prepare patients, examination rooms, equipment, supplies, and sterile trays, including procedure-specific accessories, medications, guide wires, catheters, and ancillary equipment.

• Maintain strict adherence to infection control policies, sterile technique guidelines, and safety standards.

• Assist with patient positioning, lifting, and transport to and from imaging areas as needed.

• Adapt imaging techniques or repeat procedures when necessary to ensure diagnostic accuracy, with radiologist approval.

• Accurately document, transmit, and report examination results; ensure correct charging, complete patient records, and image transmission to PACS using appropriate accession numbers.

• Perform required quality control procedures on ultrasound equipment and report equipment malfunctions or deficiencies promptly.

• Monitor and maintain supply inventory; reorder supplies, rotate dated items, and maintain a clean, organized work environment.

• Support departmental quality improvement and process improvement initiatives through data collection and analysis.

• Maintain required competencies, certifications, and continuing education.

• Ensure continuity of care through effective communication with physicians and interdisciplinary teams.

• Perform related duties as assigned in support of departmental and organizational goals.

Qualifications

Required

• Graduate of an accredited Ultrasound Sonography Program
• American Registry for Diagnostic Sonographer (ARDMS) Breast Ultrasound (BS)
• Basic Life Support (BLS)

Additional Information

Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

Background Check

Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.

Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.