The use of ultrasound, or sonographic, technology is increasing as it proves to be a safer alternative to radiation procedures. The technology is used for a variety of medical diagnostic purposes, from tracking fetal development to detecting cancer. Learning to properly use the equipment takes training. If you are interested in a career as an ultrasound technician, and are willing to obtain the necessary education, you just may find yourself in high demand.
Job Description
Ultrasound technicians, sometimes called sonographers, explain the procedure to the patient and position the patient for imaging. They use a transducer to take the image, ensuring that the equipment is set to the proper setting and positioned so that it captures the desired image.
Specialties
Ultrasounds are often used for pregnancies. Images are used to monitor the fetus's growth and development. They are used for a variety of other purposes as well. Ultrasounds are used to detect and treat problems in the gallbladder, kidneys and other abdominal areas. Technicians can also take scans of the brain and nervous system to detect disorders. Ultrasound it also used in addition to mammography to detect breast cancer. Technicians can specialize in any of these areas.
Workplace
More than half of all ultrasound technicians work in hospitals, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. They are also employed at physicians' offices, outpatient care centers, universities or medical imaging laboratories.
Education Required to Become and Ultrasound Technician
Many ultrasound technicians complete degree programs, such as those accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Allied Health Education Programs. These programs are offered mostly through colleges and universities.
Degree programs in diagnostic medical sonography are offered at the associate's and bachelor's level. As of September 2009, there were 173 accredited programs being offered, according to the CAAHEP. Students study anatomy, physiology, patient care and medical ethics while they learn operate the ultrasound equipment.
Professional Certification
Professional certification or licensing is not a requirement, but some employers prefer it. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography awards the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer credential to ultrasound technicians. Technicians meeting the education and clinical experience prerequisite may sit for the ARDMS examination.
Career Outlook and Salary
The use of diagnostic imaging is on the rise due to both the increasing aging population and the increasing use of this technology as a safer substitute for radiation procedures. The increase in use also increases the demand for ultrasound technicians. The BLS predicts above average job growth for ultrasound technicians through 2016. Mean annual wages for ultrasound technicians were reported at $62,660 as of May 2008.
Tags: ultrasound technicians, Diagnostic Medical, radiation procedures, used variety