Sonographer at St Dominic Catholic Hospital

Job Summary

• The Sonographer is responsible for performing high-quality diagnostic ultrasound examinations safely and efficiently, providing accurate imaging and preliminary findings to assist physicians in patient diagnosis and management.
• The role requires technical expertise, patient care skills, and strict adherence to SDCH protocols and NNRA radiation safety principles for ultrasound.

Key Duties & Responsibilities
Clinical Duties:

• Perform routine and specialized ultrasound scans including abdominal, pelvic, obstetric, small parts, vascular Doppler, and musculoskeletal studies as requested by licensed physicians.
• Explain procedures to patients to ensure cooperation and reduce anxiety. Obtain relevant clinical history before scanning.
• Optimize image quality by adjusting equipment settings, patient positioning, and transducer selection.
• Recognize normal and abnormal sonographic appearances. Document findings clearly and provide preliminary written reports for Radiologist review.
• Ensure patient privacy, dignity, and safety at all times, especially for obstetric and intimate examinations. Use chaperone policy where required.

Equipment & Quality:

• Operate, calibrate, and maintain ultrasound machines and probes per manufacturer guidelines. Report faults immediately.
• Conduct daily and weekly quality control checks. Keep QC logs updated.
• Ensure infection control by cleaning transducers and equipment between patients using approved disinfectants.

Administrative & Safety:

• Maintain accurate patient records, scan logs, and image archives. Ensure data confidentiality in line with SDCH policy.
• Comply with all hospital policies, NNRA regulations, and professional standards for ultrasound practice.
• Participate in continuous professional development and internal training. Attend departmental meetings and audits.
• Assist in stock control of ultrasound gel, consumables, and linen for the ultrasound room.
• Support the RSO in implementing safety culture within the Diagnostic Centre.

Customer Service:

• Maintain professional, empathetic communication with patients, relatives, and clinical staff.
• Manage appointment schedules to minimize waiting times and ensure efficient patient flow.

Key Performance Indicators

• Image quality audit score ≥90%
• Patient scan turnaround time within SDCH target
• Repeat scan rate <3% due to operator error
• Zero breaches of patient confidentiality
• 100% compliance with equipment cleaning protocol[KPIs]

Qualifications & Experience
Education:

• BSc in Radiography with specialty in Ultrasound, OR Diploma in Diagnostic Ultrasound from a recognized institution.

Licensure:

• Current practicing license with Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria [RRBN].
• Registration with NNRA as a radiation worker if applicable.

Experience:

• Minimum 2 years post-qualification experience in a busy hospital or diagnostic centre.
• Experience in obstetric and Doppler ultrasound is an added advantage.

Skills:

• Proficient in abdominal, pelvic, obstetric, and small parts scanning.
• Basic IT skills for PACS / RIS use.

Key Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail and anatomical knowledge
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
• Empathy and strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to work under pressure with minimal supervision
• High level of integrity and professionalism
• Team player with good communication skills

Working Conditions:

• Clinical environment .
• May require standing for long periods and assisting patients with mobility.
• Normal working hours: [e.g. 8am – 5pm, Mon-Sat].
• May include on-call or weekend shifts.

Reporting Line:

• Reports directly to the Head of Diagnostic Centre on operational matters and to the Radiologist on clinical / professional matters.