Being an ultrasound technologist does not mean simply working in obstetrics and helping pregnant mothers take a first glimpse of their babies. The same technology can also be used effectively in diagnosing other types of conditions as well. If you would enjoy learning operate medical equipment and having plenty of one-on-one time with patients, you should learn more about becoming an ultrasound technologist.
Function
Understanding how ultrasound technology works is the first step in learning administer that technology to help patients and physicians. The technology is called sonography. Sound waves are used to literally bounce back an image that is picked up by the equipment and displayed on the screen. The picture bounces back because the sound waves stop traveling the moment they hit something solid, such as a fetus or a baby. In fact, this technology is similar to the sonar bats use to "see" where they are flying at night.
Education Requirements
Becoming an ultrasound technologist is going to require some formal training. The good news is you can receive that training in a relatively short time. Many colleges around the United States offer two-year programs that prepare you for this career. During the program you learn about use the equipment but must also complete courses in anatomy and biology so you will be able to accurately interpret what you see on the screen. Some colleges do offer four-year programs instead. Be sure you choose an accredited program. More than 160 ultrasound technology programs have been accredited by the federal government. Most people in this field do continue their education because the technology continues to advance.
Other Skills Required
While the proper training and education is important, an ultrasound technologist must also possess other skills as well. Verbal communication skills would be at the top of that list. Because you are going to be interacting directly with patients, you need to be able to explain the procedure and the results to them. You must also be able to ask them to reposition themselves so you can get a better image. Patience is also important because generating a clear image for the physician can be challenging and time-consuming. Both you and the patient can start to become annoyed, so it is important that you can remain calm. Having good eye-hand coordination is another essential ingredient for success in the field.
Physical Skills Required
An ultrasound technologist may spend a lot of time on his/her feet during the day. If you do not have the stamina to do this, you may prefer a different career. These professionals also need adequate muscle strength because they may be required to physically move and reposition patients who are unable to do this for themselves. Like many medical jobs, this one requires physical stamina. You may even be required to work long hours in certain medical facilities such as hospitals.
Types
As part of your training to become an ultrasound technologist, you may also be asked to consider what type of technologist you want to become. You can choose from at least four options depending on your personal interests. These options include obstetric, abdominal, breast and neuro-sonographers. These technologists take images of female reproductive organs, the organs inside the center of the body like the stomach and intestines, mammograms and the brain. Other careers also use ultrasound technology. For example, an echocardiographer uses sonar to view images of the heart.
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