Ultrasound Technologist / Sonographer Career Analysis

Steven Frame/123RF.com

Working in Ultrasound

If you are looking for a career in healthcare in which you have the chance to utilize the latest technology, interact with patients, and work in a variety of settings, ultrasound may be a good choice. Ultrasound technologists, also called sonographers, are imaging specialists who operate sonography machines to create images of various internal structures, such as the kidneys, heart, and abdomen. Ultrasounds are also commonly performed on pregnant women to determine the growth and development of the fetus. Some technicians perform a wide variety of ultrasounds, while others specialize.

Responsibilities of an Ultrasound Technologist

It may seem like there is not that much to performing an ultrasound, but it involves much more than pushing a few buttons. The responsibilities of an ultrasound technologist start even before the test is underway. Techs must verify the patient’s health information as it relates to the scan. They also explain the procedure and answer patient questions.

Sonographers must understand how to prepare and position the patient to get the most accurate images. Technologists take measurements and analyze findings in real time to ensure they have captured optimal images.

It is also essential that ultrasound technologists make sure they followed test guidelines and protocols. After they complete the test, ultrasound techs prepare the results for submission to the treating doctor. Ultrasound technologists must also recognize unexpected results in order to alert the physician immediately.

Education, Skills and Licensing

The primary path to becoming an ultrasound technologist is completion of an associate or bachelor’s degree program in sonography. There are also one-year certificate programs intended for those who are already licensed as nuclear medicine techs and radiation therapists.

In addition to science and sonography classes, clinical rotations are part of an ultrasound program. Students will get on-hand experience performing various types of ultrasounds.

Although some states do license sonographers, must do not. However, most employers prefer to hire sonographers who obtain industry certification. In fact, many insurance providers will not pay for ultrasounds unless performed by a certified sonographer. Ultrasound technicians can become certified after passing an exam administered through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

In addition to education, having certain skills will help you succeed in the field. Ultrasound technologists should be detail-oriented. Small nuances in measurements or how the patient is positioned can make a difference in the test results. It is also essential to have good communication skills. Technicians need to explain procedures and instructions to patients clearly. They also need to communicate with other medical professional in a concise manner.

Opportunities and Salary

Although ultrasound technologists often work in hospitals, they are not limited to only one setting. Technologists also work in imaging centers, clinics, and mobile units. Mobile sonographers work for various companies, bringing the ultrasound to the patients. Mobile ultrasound technicians bring the equipment to the patient’s location, which may include a nursing home, rehab facility, or a small hospital that does not have ultrasound techs. In some instances, mobile sonographers may travel to a patient’s home in a rural area.

Salary for ultrasounds technicians varies. Your location, education, and years of experience contribute to how much you will earn. The more training you have, the higher you earnings may be. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for ultrasound technicians in 2014 was just over $68,000 a year.

If you are looking for a job with a good outlook, ultrasound also appears to fit the bill. As people live longer, it creates more of a need for diagnostic tests, such as ultrasounds. According to the BLS, between 2012 and 2022, the profession is expected to grow about 39 percent, which is faster than other occupations.

Please follow this link to browse current Sonographer / Ultrasound Technologist jobs.

References

United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer. http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/diagnostic-medical-sonographers.htm#tab-1 Accessed March 2015

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Sonography Certification. https://www.arrt.org/Certification/Sonography  Accessed March 2015