Contents
Follow these five steps to become an Echo Tech and jumpstart your new career in the medical field!
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Introduction
In order to become an Echo Tech, you will need to complete the following steps:
1. Complete an accredited cardiovascular technology program.
2. Pass the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) certification exam.
3. Complete a vascular technology program, if desired.
4. Obtain state licensure, if required.
5. Consider voluntary certification through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).
Echo Techs are responsible for performing diagnostic ultrasound examinations of the heart and surrounding structures, as well as blood vessels. They use ultrasound equipment to produce images or “echoes” of the inside of the patient’s body which are then interpreted by a physician to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions. Echo Techs must be able to maintain a high degree of accuracy and detail in their work in order to provide physicians with the best possible information for diagnosis and treatment purposes.
What is an Echo Tech?
Echo techs are medical professionals who use special ultrasound equipment to image a patient’s heart. They may also be known as cardiovascular technologists or technicians, depending on their level of training. In order to become an echo tech, one must complete a certification program and pass a national exam. The steps below outline how to become an echo tech.
Step 1: Research what type of certification is required.
Echo tech certification is granted by two organizations: the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and the National Certification Exam for Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (CCT). Although both exams are nationally recognized, the ARDMS is more common.
Step 2: Complete an accredited vascular sonography program.
There are many accredited vascular sonography programs available across the country. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) is a good resource for finding an accredited program near you. Most programs take two years to complete and include coursework in topics such as anatomy, physiology, and medical ethics
Step 3: Pass the national exam.
After completing an accredited vascular sonography program, you will be eligible to take the national exam administered by either the ARDMS or the CCT. You must pass this exam in order to become certified.
Step 4: Maintain your certification.
Once you have passed the national exam, you will need to maintain your certification through continuing education credits or re-examination every few years, depending on which organization you are certified through.
Step 5: Consider joining a professional organization.
There are many professional organizations for echo techs at the state and national level. These organizations offer networking opportunities, continuing education credits, and advocacy for cardiovascular technologists and technicians
The 5 Steps to Becoming an Echo Tech
There are many reasons you may want to consider a career in Echo Tech. Perhaps you are interested in the healthcare field, but don’t want to spend years in school. Maybe you like the idea of working with technology and helping people. Or maybe you are looking for a career with good job security and decent pay. Whatever your reasons, becoming an Echo Tech can be a great option. Here are the 5 steps you need to take to make it happen.
Step One: Graduate from high school or obtain a GED
Step One: Graduate from high school or obtain a GED
The first step to becoming an Echo Tech is to graduate from high school or obtain a GED. To become an Echo Tech, you will need to have completed at least two years of college, although a four-year degree is preferred. Many community colleges offer two-year Allied Health programs that can be beneficial in becoming an Echo Tech. In addition to completing an accredited program, you will also need to obtain certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).
Step Two: Complete a training program
Becoming an Echo Tech usually requires completing a training program, which can range from a few months to a year. There are many different types of training programs available including on-the-job training, certificate programs, and associate’s degree programs. Once you have completed a training program, you will be able to sit for the national Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) exam.
Step Three: Obtain certification
Echo techs are certified through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). In order to become certified, sonographers must first pass an exam. The certification process includes both a written and practical examination. Once an echo tech is certified, he or she must recertify every two years.
Step Four: Find a job
After completing your training and passing the certification exam, it’s time to find a job. You can search for open positions on job boards or contact hospitals and clinics directly. Many employers require echo techs to have at least one year of experience, so you may want to consider working as a tech in a cardiology lab or doctor’s office before applying for a position in a hospital.
Step Five: Advance your career
The final step to becoming an Echo Tech is to continue your education and advance your career. Because medical technology is constantly changing, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field. One way to do this is by pursuing continuing education opportunities and professional development courses offered by organizations like the American Society of Echocardiography. You can also join professional organizations, such as the National Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, which offer networking opportunities, career resources, and access to the latest research and information in the field.
Conclusion
Echocardiography, also called cardiac ultrasound or cardiovascular ultrasound, is a type of noninvasive diagnostic testing that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to produce real-time images of the heart. An echocardiogram (echo) is often used to evaluate the structure and function of your heart’s valves, as well as the size, thickness and movement of your heart’s chambers and walls.
If you are interested in becoming an echo tech, you will need to complete a training program and obtain certification. While certification is not always required, it can give you an edge in the job market and show employers that you are knowledgeable and skilled in the field. Here are five steps you can take to become an echo tech:
1. Complete a training program. Echo tech programs are typically offered at community colleges and technical schools. Many programs take about two years to complete and offer both classroom and hands-on training.
2. Obtain certification. Certification is not required to become an echo tech, but it can give you an advantage in the job market. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) offers certification for those who wish to pursue it. To be eligible for certification, you must have completed an accredited training program and pass a written exam.
3. Get experience. While working under the supervision of a licensed physician, you will gain valuable experience performing echocardiograms and other diagnostic tests. Most states require that you have at least one year of experience before you can apply for licensure.
4. Apply for licensure. Once you have met all of the requirements, you can apply for licensure through your state’s medical board. Once licensed, you will be able to perform echocardiograms independently.
5. Stay up-to-date on new technology and advancements in the field. As technology evolves, so does the field of echocardiography . Keeping up with new technology will allow you to provide better patient care and stay ahead of your competition .
