Tara L. Decker
Madison Heights
Summary
As an experienced cardiac sonographer, I aim to apply my skills and knowledge in diagnostic imaging to produce high-quality ultrasound images for physicians. I excel in conducting pediatric echocardiograms with attention to detail and am skilled in using ultrasound equipment from top manufacturers like GE, Philips, and Siemens. My goal is to promote self-sufficiency, technical proficiency, empathy and reassurance in the field of echocardiography.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Pediatric Cardiac Sonographer
University Of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital
Iowa City
11.2025 - Current
- Conducted pediatric echocardiograms and prepared preliminary reports, enhancing diagnostic accuracy for congenital and non-congenital patients in outpatient setting.
- Performed detailed measurements of cardiac function with advanced 3D imaging and strain techniques, contributing to precise assessments of cardiac health.
- Evaluated the anatomy of cardiac structures, chambers, valves, great vessels and pericardium.
- Identified any abnormal findings from sonography studies.
- Ensured accuracy in measurements taken during sonographic scans.
- Operated ultrasound equipment to capture high-quality images for diagnosis.
- Reviewed patient medical histories to ensure accurate imaging procedures, facilitating effective diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Entered detailed findings into electronic health records to facilitate comprehensive physician review.
- Maintained patient records and entered data into computer system accurately.
- Performed pediatric echocardiograms to assess the cardiac function of adult congenital patients.
Pediatric Cardiac Sonographer
Bronson Methodist Hospital
Kalamazoo
11.2024 - 10.2025
- Conducted pediatric echocardiograms to assess cardiac function for both congenital and non-congenital patients in outpatient and inpatient settings.
- Conducted pediatric echocardiograms to assess cardiac function in adult congenital patients.
- Assessed heart function using 3D and strain methods, contributing to enhanced diagnostic accuracy.
- Evaluated the anatomy of cardiac structures, chambers, valves, great vessels and pericardium.
- Identified any abnormal findings from sonography studies.
- Ensured accuracy in measurements taken during sonographic scans.
- Assessed images for diagnostic quality and identified any artifacts or technical errors.
- Operated ultrasound equipment to capture high-quality images for diagnosis.
- Reviewed patient medical histories to support accurate imaging procedures and optimize patient care.
- Documented findings in electronic health records for physician review.
- Maintained patient records and entered data into computer system accurately.
- Explained procedures to patients and addressed questions, fostering a supportive environment during exams.
- Assisted in training new staff on ultrasound techniques and protocols.
- Maintained equipment cleanliness and performed routine checks for safety compliance.
Pediatric Cardiac Sonographer
Beaumont Children's Hospital
Royal Oak
01.2022 - 10.2024
- Conducted pediatric echocardiograms and prepared verbal preliminary reports for both congenital and non-congenital patients in outpatient and inpatient settings.
- Collaborated effectively within the team, providing comfort and distraction to distressed patients during their echocardiograms.
- Maintained a clean and organized work environment, ensured supplies were adequately stocked, and kept equipment sanitized after each procedure.
- Utilized hands-on, motivational techniques to train new employees.
- Ensured a positive customer experience through friendly, attentive, and authentic service.
- Obtained a performance monitoring system for front-of-house operations including Accountability and enhanced productivity among all team members.
Student rotation
Spectrum Zeeland / Blodgett Hospital
01.2022 - 05.2022
- Conducted echocardiograms and generated verbal preliminary reports consistently at a high technical level, requiring minimal supervision.
- Maintained a tidy and organized workspace, ensured supplies were adequately stocked, and kept machines clean and disinfected following each procedure.
- Gained experience with contrast and post-scanning stress tests.
- Observed advanced procedures, including 3D imaging, strain analysis, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), Watchman procedures, and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
- Completed rotation with a total of 367.5 Hours.
Student Rotation
McLaren Oakland Hospital
01.2021
- Effectively prepared patients for stress testing and echocardiograms by thoroughly explaining the procedures, obtaining blood pressure readings, positioning patients appropriately, and attaching electrodes and leads.
- Conducted 2D echocardiograms with professionalism, demonstrating a strong commitment to patient care.
- Completed rotation with a total of 292.5 Hours.
Self Employed Massage Therapist
Home Residence
Madison Heights
01.2019 - Current
- Oversaw daily caseload of 4-6 clients, providing tailored treatments to meet individual needs.
- Assessed client's medical history to identify specific areas of tension or discomfort, enhancing treatment effectiveness.
- Organized and maintained detailed medical records to ensure continuity of care.
- Ensured a clean work environment and provided fresh linens for each client.
Massage Therapist
Hamilton Family Chiropractic
Hamilton
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Tailored each class to align with the skill sets and learning levels of all participants.
- Monitored employee performance and delegated tasks effectively to ensure operational efficiency.
- Optimized staffing levels through strategic scheduling to meet class demands and enhance service delivery.
- Addressed employee concerns and production-related issues.
- Recommended exercise modifications to individual students, reducing risk of strain and injury during sessions.
Server
The Elbow Room
Zeeland
01.2018 - 01.2019
Team Lead
Snap Fitness
Zeeland
01.2018 - 01.2019
Medical Massage Therapist
Blue Heron Academy for Medical Massage Therapy
01.2019
- Reviewed the client's medical history and identify areas of tension or discomfort.
- Kept accurate medical records.
- Applied a variety of massage techniques, including deep tissue massage, reflexology, and sports massage.
Education
Associate of Cardiac Sonography -
BAKER COLLEGE
01.2022
B.S. - Exercise Science
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY
01.2018
Skills
- Pediatric echocardiography
- Ultrasound operation
- Cardiac anatomy evaluation
- Electronic health records
- Patient communication
- Team collaboration
- Equipment maintenance
- Performance monitoring
- Procedure explanation
- Training and mentorship
- Continuous learning mindset
- Body positioning and placement
- Quality assurance adherence
- 3D echocardiography
- Reliability
Affiliations
- ARDMS: The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- NCBTMB: National Certification Board For Therapeutic Massage and Body Work
Certification
• American Heart Association AED/BLS for Healthcare Providers, expires 10/26
• Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS), ARDMS approved, 06/23
• Adult Echocardiography (AE) examination, ARDMS approved, 12/22
• Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) examination, ARDMS approved, 06/23
• Massage License, 7501011887, expires 12/06/26
• Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS), ARDMS approved, 06/23
• Adult Echocardiography (AE) examination, ARDMS approved, 12/22
• Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) examination, ARDMS approved, 06/23
• Massage License, 7501011887, expires 12/06/26
Accomplishments
Completed 200 hours of instructional labs introduction to Pediatric Imaging
Awards
- Dean's List at Baker College, 2021-2022
- Dean's List at Grand Valley State University, 2018
Continuing Education
- Currently signed up to take the ARDMS PE board on April 8th, 2026.
- Fetal Cardiology Conference, Lecture and Hands-On, 2024, This conference focused on hands-on scanning techniques in fetal cardiology. Attendees gained insights into congenital diagnoses during fetal scanning and learned strategies for navigating challenging discoveries and outcomes.
- Treating TMJ Massage Seminar, Lecture and Hands-On, 2022, This seminar provided a comprehensive exploration of treatment techniques for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, a prevalent and intricate issue. Participants learned effective methods for addressing TMJ and its associated conditions, such as jaw pain and chronic headaches.
Timeline
Pediatric Cardiac Sonographer
University Of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital
11.2025 - Current
Pediatric Cardiac Sonographer
Bronson Methodist Hospital
11.2024 - 10.2025
Pediatric Cardiac Sonographer
Beaumont Children's Hospital
01.2022 - 10.2024
Student rotation
Spectrum Zeeland / Blodgett Hospital
01.2022 - 05.2022
Student Rotation
McLaren Oakland Hospital
01.2021
Self Employed Massage Therapist
Home Residence
01.2019 - Current
Massage Therapist
Hamilton Family Chiropractic
01.2019 - 01.2021
Medical Massage Therapist
Blue Heron Academy for Medical Massage Therapy
01.2019
Server
The Elbow Room
01.2018 - 01.2019
Team Lead
Snap Fitness
01.2018 - 01.2019
Associate of Cardiac Sonography -
BAKER COLLEGE
B.S. - Exercise Science
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY