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If you’re looking to become an ultrasound technician you’ll need to know what education and skills are required. This blog post will tell you everything you need to get started in this rewarding career.
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Introduction
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in medical imaging, you may be wondering what you need to become an ultrasound technician. ultrasound techs also known as diagnostic medical sonographers, use special equipment to produce images of patients’ internal organs and blood flow. These images are used by physicians to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions.
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what you need to become an ultrasound technician, there are a few key things that will give you a leg up in the field. In this article, we’ll discuss the education and training requirements for ultrasound techs as well as some important personal qualities that will help you succeed in this career.
What You Need to Become an Ultrasound Technician
Ultrasound technicians, also known as diagnostic medical sonographers, use special equipment to create images of patients’ internal organs, blood vessels, and fetuses. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private offices, and most have earned an associate’s degree in ultrasound technology Some have gone on to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree, and a few have completed postgraduate studies in a specialty area.
Education
Ultrasound technicians, also called diagnostic medical sonographers, use special equipment to create images of patients’ internal organs, blood vessels and unborn babies. Most employers prefer to hire ultrasound technicians who have completed a certification or associate’s degree program in diagnostic medical sonography. Although not required, certification by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) may improve your job prospects.
Relevant coursework in an accredited ultrasound technology program includes Anatomy and Physiology, Pathology, Sectional Anatomy and Physics. You’ll also learn how to operate diagnostic ultrasound equipment and maintain sonographic records. Some programs offer clinical training experiences that give students the opportunity to work with patients under the supervision of licensed health care professionals.
Certification
Ultrasound technicians, also called diagnostic medical sonographers, perform diagnostic ultrasounds on patients. They may specialize in a particular area of the body, such as the abdomen, heart, or obstetrics. Ultrasound techs must be able to operate complex equipment and work with patients of all ages.
Most ultrasound technicians complete a certificate or associate’s degree program in diagnostic medical sonography. Some 4-year colleges and universities also offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the field.
While certification is not required to become an ultrasound technician, many employers prefer to hire candidates who are certified by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or who have completed an accredited program. Certification shows that an ultrasound tech has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the job.
Experience
Ultrasound technicians typically need an associate’s degree from an accredited program. Some have a bachelor’s degree, and a small number have master’s degrees.
In addition to academic coursework in anatomy and physiology, physics, and mathematics, students enrolled in an accredited ultrasound technology program complete supervised clinical education. Because imaging technology changes rapidly, continuing education is important for those who wish to stay current in the profession.
Most states regulate the use of diagnostic ultrasound equipment, and some states require practitioners to be licensed or registered. In most states, licensure or registration requires successful completion of an exam administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). ARDMS offers examinations in abdomen, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, breast, and vascular ultrasound.
Skills
Ultrasound technicians must have excellent hand-eye coordination and manipulative skills in order to place the transducer in the correct position for each diagnostic imaging scan. They also need strong verbal and written communication skills to be able to explain the procedure to patients and take accurate patient histories. Those who work in direct patient care must be compassionate and have the ability to deal with patients who may be in pain or anxious about their procedures. They also need basic computer skills to operate the scanning equipment and perform image analysis.
Conclusion
In order to become an ultrasound technician, you will need to have completed a certified training program and have earned your credentials from an accredited institution. Once you have met these requirements, you will then be eligible to take the national certification exam. Upon successfully passing this exam, you will be a Registered diagnostic medical sonographer (RDMS) and will be able to find employment in a variety of healthcare settings.
