Ultrasound is used to map organs and blood vessels for surgery.
Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves between 3.5 to 7.0 megahertz. As the sound waves come in contact with the body, an image of the internal organs is seen. Ultrasound is often used for pregnant women, but it can also be used to study other areas of the body. Ultrasound technicians work in hospitals and clinics all over the world, and many techs enjoy frequent travel as part of their job. Techs earn between $53,000 and $58,000 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Temporary Ultrasound Techs
Temporary technicians may fill in during maternity leave.
The temporary ultrasound technician typically works for a placement agency or a temporary staffing company. On occasion, a hospital or clinic requires a technician to fill in during periods of increased patient case loads or during a prolonged absence of the regular ultrasound technician. The staffing agency will contact an available technician and negotiate travel arrangements, salary terms and required housing if necessary. The ultrasound technician may work for a period of several days, weeks or months in the temporary location. At the completion of the assignment, the tech returns home to await another assignment, or she may immediately continue on to her next temporary placement. Temporary techs earn as much as $48 per hour, DegreeDirectory.org indicates.
Home-Based Ultrasound Techs
Home-based ultrasound techs make regularly scheduled visits and emergency visits.
Home health care professionals travel within their state to provide quality medical care to home-bound patients who cannot attend regular doctor clinics. Traveling ultrasound technicians also provide quality routine medical care in the home. The ultrasound tech carries a portable ultrasound machine to check for changes in a patient's health, monitor the progression of tumors and watch for additional health concerns. Home-based ultrasound techs working on a contract basis can earn between $50 and $75 an hour, according to DegreeDirectory.org.
Ultrasound Specialists
Some technicians only provide consulting services on special cases.
Some ultrasound technicians are highly skilled specialists in their field. These specialists are often called on to review cases which require the consultation of an expert. In some instances, the case may be located in another state, across the country or even halfway around the world. An ultrasound technician who is in high demand may travel monthly or even on a weekly basis to provide consultation for extreme cases. A specialist can earn more than $72,000 per year.
Pro Bono Ultrasound Techs
Many underfunded hospitals and clinics rely on pro bono ultrasound techs.
An ultrasound technician may also provide pro bono work for hospitals, doctors' offices and clinics that cannot hire a full-time ultrasound technician. The technician may volunteer her time in the evenings or on her days off. The tech travels to various locations and provides ultrasound services for expectant mothers, cardiac patients and others who require ultrasound scans. Pro bono work is often performed without pay or at a reduced rate.
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