Chief Echocardiographer

Clinical Responsibilities

Practice as a specialist autonomous professional in adult echocardiography and show proficiency in exercising clinical judgement when required.

Practice safely and effectively, interpret and act upon results of the tests, investigations and measurements in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.

Perform diagnostic echocardiography using advanced techniques such as 3D and GLS to produce a clinically comprehensive report in accordance with BSE guidelines and local standards/protocols

Perform echocardiography in a range of settings, including portable scans at bedside, ITU and cardiac catheter labs.

Administer appropriate medications and contrast agents as part of advanced clinical practice.

Participate in setting excellent local standards in Echocardiography, and to continually develop and update these to ensure they incorporate current professional recommendations and evidence-based practice.

Keep abreast of developments in Echocardiography and disseminate new information to other members of staff effectively.

Comply with national and international guidelines such as BSE, ASE, NICE, ESC and SCST as well as local clinical guidelines; and ensure that these guidelines are adhered to.

Ensure that Kings Echo service communicates with other centres and external stakeholders in a professional and productive manner, facilitating the exchange of patient records and minimising disruption to services

Perform regular audits to ensure compliance with local and national standards.

Apply and promote evidence-based practice and use of relevant clinical protocols and procedures at the complex and advanced level; as well as acquire and maintain a high level of professional competence in the performance of all tests, investigations and measurements.

Comment and advise on new proposals and protocols, especially for service improvements.

Adhere to infection control guidelines including correct use of PPE and uniform policy.

Education and Training

• Provide training, mentorship and support to junior staff, SpRs and Echo Fellows, with a view to improve their echo knowledge and skills.
• Assist in echocardiography education throughout the Trust, including medical students, PTP and STP trainees.
• Maintain own proficiency in echo and other technical skills by keeping up to date with current guidelines.
• Ensure that own mandatory training certificates are current.
• Actively participate in his/her own performance review and own professional development.

Maintain BSE and/or other transthoracic echocardiography accreditation

• Maintain/ work towards additional professional accreditation as appropriate.
• Complete relevant training and competencies to provide advanced clinical practice.
• The post holder will be encouraged to maintain and/or obtain HCPC registration, further educational qualifications and memberships with professional bodies.
• Administer appropriate medications and contrast agents as part of advanced clinical practice.
• Write up interesting case studies / clinical abstracts and submit to appropriate journals.
• Actively participate in educational sessions and journal club.