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What does it take to be an ultrasound technician? There are a few things you need to know before you can start your career in this field. First, you’ll need to have an understanding of basic anatomy and physiology. You’ll also need to be comfortable working with computers and using imaging software. And finally, you’ll need to be able to communicate effectively with patients and other members of the healthcare team. If you have these skills, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career
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The Prerequisites
Becoming an ultrasound technician requires completing an accredited training program and passing a credentialing exam. Some states also regulate the field of diagnostic sonography, and most employers prefer to hire technicians who are credentialed. Most people who enter the field have at least an associate’s degree, although a bachelor’s degree may be required for some positions.
Education
In order to become an ultrasound technician, one must first complete an accredited ultrasound program. Programs typically take two years to complete and result in an associate’s degree, although some students choose to continue their education and earn a bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography.
After completing an accredited program, graduates must then obtain certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). The ARDMS offers several different exams, each of which covers a different area of ultrasound technology Once a technician has passed one or more of these exams, they are considered certified and can begin seeking employment.
Certification
In order to work as an ultrasound technician, one must be certified by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). There are several steps that must be completed in order to take the ARDMS certification exam, which include completing an accredited ultrasound program and passing both a physics and a clinical practicum exam.
The Job Description
An ultrasound technician, also called a diagnostic medical sonographer is a professional who uses special equipment to create images of the human body. Ultrasound technicians typically work in hospitals, but may also work in private clinics or physicians’ offices.
What ultrasound techs Do
Medical Sonographers, also called ultrasound technicians or diagnostic medical sonographers, are health care professionals who provide diagnostic patient care services using ultrasound. They operate special imaging equipment to create images or conduct tests.
Ultrasound examinations do not use ionizing radiation (as used in x-rays). Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the body’s internal organs as well as blood flowing through vessels.
Ultrasound techs work in hospitals, clinics, outpatient centers, and physicians’ offices. They may also be employed in mobile imaging units that travel to patients’ homes or workplaces.
Most fulltime ultrasound techs work about 40 hours a week. those employed in hospitals typically work evenings, nights, weekends, or holidays. Some techs may be required to be on call for emergencies.
Where They Work
Ultrasound technicians, also called diagnostic medical sonographers, operate machines that produce images of patients’ internal organs. They typically work in hospitals, medical offices, and diagnostic laboratories. Many full-time ultrasound technicians work about 40 hours a week, but their schedules may include evenings and weekends.
Most ultrasound technicians work in hospitals. Some work in outpatient care centers, physician’s offices, and diagnostic imaging centers. A small number work in industrial and research settings. Some self-employed ultrasound technicians contract their services to medical facilities.
The Skills You Need
Being an ultrasound technician requires some specific skills. First and foremost, you must be able to operate the ultrasound machine. You must also have a good understanding of human anatomy. It is also important to be able to communicate with patients and provide them with instructions. Let’s take a look at some of the other skills you need to be an ultrasound technician.
Technical Skills
Ultrasound technicians, also called ultrasound techs or diagnostic medical sonographers, use special equipment to take images of patients’ internal organs. These images help doctors make diagnoses. To produce quality images, ultrasound techs must understand the features and functions of the machines they use. They must also be able to troubleshoot problems with the machines and apply various techniques to produce clear pictures.
In addition to technical skills, ultrasound techs need interpersonal skills. They must be able to put patients at ease and explain procedures in a way that patients can understand. They also need to be able to work well with other members of the healthcare team, such as doctors and nurses.
Interpersonal Skills
Each patient you work with will be different. You need to be able to adapt your bedside manner to each individual. You might have a patient who is anxious about their procedure. You need to be able to put them at ease and explain the procedure in a way that will help them relax. You also might have a patient who is in pain. You need to be sensitive to their needs and make sure they are as comfortable as possible. You will also be working with patients from all different age groups, so you need to be able to communicate effectively with people of all ages.
The Salary and job outlook
Many people are interested in the medical field, but are unsure of which route to take. A career as an ultrasound technician is a great option for those who want to help others and make a difference. It is a unique field that offers a variety of opportunities. Let’s take a look at what it takes to be an ultrasound technician.
Salary
As of May 2019, the median annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers was $71,750. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than the median and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $50,080, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $98,540.
Most diagnostic medical sonographers work full time. Because some diagnostic imaging procedures are performed outside of normal working hours, some sonographers may work evenings or weekends.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for ultrasound technicians is strong. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in this field will grow by 24 percent between 2018 and 2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is largely due to an aging baby boomer population and the resulting demand for diagnostic imaging to screen for a variety of health conditions.
