Job summary
This is a new advertisement for Trainee Sonographers (starting at 65% or 70% Annex 21 band 7) to commence fully funded formal training in January 2024 or 2025, to achieve a Postgraduate Diploma.
The post is fixed term, until post holder demonstrates successful achievement of Postgraduate Certificate/70% Annex 21, and can evidence ability to complete Postgraduate Diploma, before progressing to substantive post.
We are a busy team of 18 Sonographers and seek new colleagues who are cheerful, humble and willing to learn. We welcome applications from candidates who do not have formal qualifications in ultrasound and from students who are in the final year of their radiography course. It is desirable if the candidate has completed an ultrasound focused undergraduate course.
Candidates must ensure that they are eligible for University entry as this will be based on individual circumstances. Depending experience, the postgraduate training is likely to be with University of West England (UWE). The required modules exclude obstetric ultrasound.
Candidates must have registration with either HCPC or RCT.Candidates without HCPC registration are limited in clinical role extension and can benefit from career progression in areas such as education, leadership and management.
Please direct queries to Jo Dunn, Ultrasound Rota Coordinator, on 01752 432015.
Main duties of the job
Interviews 29th September 2023.
***Preference will be given to internal Trust staff, as well as 'Priority' and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon who are able to display recent relevant experience as dictated by the Person Specification.***
- Working towards achieving the appropriate qualification for a range of ultrasound skill sets fitting in with service needs.
- Working towards providing a high quality ultrasound service at both the Derriford site and at peripheral clinics as directed.
- Working towards independently reporting examinations according to the level of reporting authorisation agreed with the Consultant Sonographer and Clinical Lead in Ultrasound.
- Trainee sonographers will be expected to work for a minimum of 2 years within the ultrasound department after obtaining a Post Graduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound (see job description).
About us
We are a people business - where every member of staff matters and can make a difference. Patients are at the heart of everything we do. Joining University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust means becoming part of a team of dedicated staff, who are committed to leading the way through innovation, clinical excellence and great customer care. The Trust has great opportunities for career development in a highly progressive working environment. We offer all of this in a vibrant, modern city with a historic reputation for adventure.PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL COMMUNICATION WILL BE ELECTRONIC, PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL ACCOUNT REGULARLY.If you have any issues with applying online and need additional support including reasonable adjustments with the application process please contact the recruitment team on 01752 432100.We recognise that work life balance is important for our colleagues and so we invite requests from applicants around less than full time/flexible working for our advertised roles. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss this prior to your application submission. We commit to giving this full consideration in each case. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply for our roles, as diversity strengthens our teams.It is sometimes necessary to close vacancies before the closing date. If you have not heard from us within 4 weeks of the closing date, please assume that you have not been shortlisted.
Job description
Job responsibilities
- To attend the selected course at University of West of England (UWE), or other appropriate University, and successfully achieve Post Graduate Diploma in Ultrasound. This must include core components of abdominal, gynaecological and testicular scanning. Other components required may be a combination of paediatric, head and neck or musculoskeletal ultrasound, which will be determined based on service needs. Obstetric ultrasound is excluded.
- The post is fixed term, until post holder demonstrates successful achievement of Postgraduate Certificate and can evidence ability to complete Postgraduate Diploma, before progressing to substantive post.
- If the candidate already possesses an undergraduate degree in ultrasound, which includes the required clinical components, then other modules can be considered.
- University application is a separate process with its own entry criteria. The candidate who is shortlisted for this post is not guaranteed a place in University and MUST satisfy University entry on an individual basis in order to commence this training post.
- To complete preceptorship pathway as determined by Ultrasound Department upon qualification.
- To work in this Ultrasound Department for a minimum of 2 years following progression to Band 7 Sonographer. See appendices 1 and 2.
- To undertake the necessary training to remain conversant with current practice and maintaining and developing the clinical skills necessary for the role as a reporting sonographer
- To be mindful of the needs, safety and concerns of patients; to protect their confidentiality and to adhere to the principles of informed consent.
- Working towards carrying out ultrasound investigations and procedures safely, according to patients clinical needs and departmental practice, and to produce a report on such investigations.
- To ensure images, reports, and other documents are stored and handled securely, patient identification and image annotation are accurate, and all necessary data entry onto electronic records is carried out properly.
- To collaborate with the Lead Ultrasound Clinician, Consultant Sonographer, Consultant Practitioner, Advanced Practice Sonographer, Superintendent Sonographer, Student Coordinator and Ultrasound Administrator in in delivering the highest quality and standards of care.
- To report any equipment failures or untoward occurrences to the line manager in a timely manner.
- To work co-operatively and collaboratively within the multi-disciplinary team to ensure the highest quality patient-focused care.
- To be a role-model for the Trust Values.
- To undertake and maintain a record of continuing professional development according to the HCPC standards.
- On qualification, to participate in the education of trainee sonographers, radiologists and other health care professionals as directed by the Consultant Sonographer, Superintendent Sonographer and Student Coordinator.
- To attend and participate in internal continuing professional activities within the department, including image review sessions, discrepancy meetings and educational seminars.
- To participate in the regular Sonographer quality assurance programme.
- To undertake additional duties relating to the smooth running of the ultrasound department after discussion and consultation with the Superintendent Sonographer and Consultant Sonographer.
Job description
Job responsibilities
- To attend the selected course at University of West of England (UWE), or other appropriate University, and successfully achieve Post Graduate Diploma in Ultrasound. This must include core components of abdominal, gynaecological and testicular scanning. Other components required may be a combination of paediatric, head and neck or musculoskeletal ultrasound, which will be determined based on service needs. Obstetric ultrasound is excluded.
- The post is fixed term, until post holder demonstrates successful achievement of Postgraduate Certificate and can evidence ability to complete Postgraduate Diploma, before progressing to substantive post.
- If the candidate already possesses an undergraduate degree in ultrasound, which includes the required clinical components, then other modules can be considered.
- University application is a separate process with its own entry criteria. The candidate who is shortlisted for this post is not guaranteed a place in University and MUST satisfy University entry on an individual basis in order to commence this training post.
- To complete preceptorship pathway as determined by Ultrasound Department upon qualification.
- To work in this Ultrasound Department for a minimum of 2 years following progression to Band 7 Sonographer. See appendices 1 and 2.
- To undertake the necessary training to remain conversant with current practice and maintaining and developing the clinical skills necessary for the role as a reporting sonographer
- To be mindful of the needs, safety and concerns of patients; to protect their confidentiality and to adhere to the principles of informed consent.
- Working towards carrying out ultrasound investigations and procedures safely, according to patients clinical needs and departmental practice, and to produce a report on such investigations.
- To ensure images, reports, and other documents are stored and handled securely, patient identification and image annotation are accurate, and all necessary data entry onto electronic records is carried out properly.
- To collaborate with the Lead Ultrasound Clinician, Consultant Sonographer, Consultant Practitioner, Advanced Practice Sonographer, Superintendent Sonographer, Student Coordinator and Ultrasound Administrator in in delivering the highest quality and standards of care.
- To report any equipment failures or untoward occurrences to the line manager in a timely manner.
- To work co-operatively and collaboratively within the multi-disciplinary team to ensure the highest quality patient-focused care.
- To be a role-model for the Trust Values.
- To undertake and maintain a record of continuing professional development according to the HCPC standards.
- On qualification, to participate in the education of trainee sonographers, radiologists and other health care professionals as directed by the Consultant Sonographer, Superintendent Sonographer and Student Coordinator.
- To attend and participate in internal continuing professional activities within the department, including image review sessions, discrepancy meetings and educational seminars.
- To participate in the regular Sonographer quality assurance programme.
- To undertake additional duties relating to the smooth running of the ultrasound department after discussion and consultation with the Superintendent Sonographer and Consultant Sonographer.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
- Candidates must possess either BSc Radiography, or science related undergraduate degree or equivalent, which will meet the entry criteria for postgraduate qualification in University.
- On qualification, Post Graduate Diploma from a CASE accredited institution or Diploma in Medical Ultrasound from the College of Radiographer
Desirable
- oUndergraduate degree which is focused purely on Ultrasound.
Knowledge & Experience
Essential
- oRecent demonstrable experience of working, or being on student placement, in a hospital imaging department; familiarity with the common medical imaging techniques, practices and terminology.
- oOn qualification, thorough proven knowledge of all standard ultrasound techniques in general, testicular and gynaecological practice.
Desirable
- oCurrent demonstrable experience of working, or being on student placement, in NHS Imaging or Ultrasound department for last 2 years.
Aptitude & Abilities
Essential
- Able to manage your own workload and deliver a service to patients in a friendly, supportive and competent manner.
- Communication skills in written and spoken English, including the ability to construct clear reports, convey bad news, communicate moderately complex clinical information at an appropriate level to both the public and fellow health professionals
Desirable
- More advanced clinical judgement and communication skills.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
- Candidates must possess either BSc Radiography, or science related undergraduate degree or equivalent, which will meet the entry criteria for postgraduate qualification in University.
- On qualification, Post Graduate Diploma from a CASE accredited institution or Diploma in Medical Ultrasound from the College of Radiographer
Desirable
- oUndergraduate degree which is focused purely on Ultrasound.
Knowledge & Experience
Essential
- oRecent demonstrable experience of working, or being on student placement, in a hospital imaging department; familiarity with the common medical imaging techniques, practices and terminology.
- oOn qualification, thorough proven knowledge of all standard ultrasound techniques in general, testicular and gynaecological practice.
Desirable
- oCurrent demonstrable experience of working, or being on student placement, in NHS Imaging or Ultrasound department for last 2 years.
Aptitude & Abilities
Essential
- Able to manage your own workload and deliver a service to patients in a friendly, supportive and competent manner.
- Communication skills in written and spoken English, including the ability to construct clear reports, convey bad news, communicate moderately complex clinical information at an appropriate level to both the public and fellow health professionals
Desirable
- More advanced clinical judgement and communication skills.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
Additional information
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
