A sonographer at work
Becoming a sonographer or, as it's more commonly referred to, ultrasound technician is an excellent area of the medical field. This is especially true in Seattle because salaries for sonographers here are the second highest in the entire nation at around $30 per hour. As a sonographer, you work with doctors and other medical professionals to help diagnose patients and their ailments through state-of-the-art machinery and computers.The field also allows you to explore other areas of the health profession so you can expand your opportunities once you get some experience.
Instructions
1. Search for schools in Seattle that offer medical diagnostic sonography training. The premier school in the area is Pima Medical Institute which offers certification training as an ultrasound technician and an Associate's Degree in the field as well. You can also find other Seattle-area schools that offer similar programs, including Everest College, Bellevue Community College and the University of Washington-Seattle.
2. Possess some upper body strength. The field of medical diagnostic sonography involves lifting and positioning patients correctly on the machines that run the scans of their body. In some cases, they might not be able to lift themselves and you will need to do it for them. This can take a toll on your body if you are not careful.
3. Be a compassionate and understanding person. When working with patients that could have serious problems, you may be dealing with depressed and grouchy people. This can be demanding on your personality, but it's important to still treat them with respect and do your job to the best of your ability. The rainy weather in Seattle doesn't help much, either. People tend to be less upbeat and more gloomy when the skies are gray and dreary as often as they are in Seattle.
4. Get certified. You can become a sonographer without first completing training and getting certification, but you won't make as much money and your job opportunities are more limited. To be a certified sonographer, complete a program at an accredited school and then pass the exam for the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). Some Seattle hospitals, including the Swedish Medical Center and the Virginia Mason Hospital, will offer training for sonographers, but most places prefer hiring a person who has fulfilled all of the requirements beforehand.
5. Look for ways to expand your opportunities. The medical field is full of opportunities for people who are dedicated and willing to put in some extra work. By taking extra classes and volunteering for extra shifts, you may be able to make a name for yourself and get recognized for your hard work and abilities. Take computer classes and other classes that relate to your day-to-day responsibilities at places like Highline Community College, North Seattle Community College and Shoreline Community College. Also, consider a graduate degree in Seattle at institutions like the University of Washington.
Tags: Community College, your opportunities, diagnostic sonography, expand your, expand your opportunities
