An
ultrasound technician or ultrasound technologist works with
doctors to operate ultrasound equipment. An ultrasound tech may
be required to work with patients directly, and use various
types of machinery to monitor and observe different parts of the
body of their patients. Ultrasound tech professionals can also
use their skills to diagnose and find diseases in people other
than pregnant mothers. An ultrasound technologist is responsible
for diagnosing organ abnormalities and monitoring pregnancies.
An ultrasound diagnostic school can provide essential training
for a rewarding career in the health and medical field.
Job Description and Responsibilities of Ultrasound School Graduates
Graduates of ultrasound schools
are expected to:
-
Apply digital imaging
techniques when working with pregnant mothers
-
Operate and manage ultrasound
equipment
-
Put patients at ease by
explaining the physician's or health practitioner's instructions
-
Assume office manager
responsibilities and duties
-
Maintain patient
confidentiality
-
Observe ethical standards
Career Options After Ultrasound Training or Ultrasound School
Students of ultrasound schools can choose to work in:
Ultrasound Technologist Training & Certification
Prospective ultrasound
technologists and technicians can obtain ultrasound training in a variety of
school programs. Ultrasound diagnostic school can provide the basis for ongoing
education and training, and students must complete their
education at an accredited
vocational or community college program. Ultrasound Technology programs can be
completed in two years, and often lead to an Associate's Degree.
Students enrolled in these
programs will need to concentrate on math, computer science, health, life
science, and physical science during high school. Medical terminology is
especially important, and a college degree in ultrasound technology training can
provide extensive learning in this area in addition to hands-on training.
Students will need to make sure that the program is accredited, and can register
as a professional Ultrasound Technician with the American Radiological and
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (ARDMS) Association upon graduation.
A one year certification
program is also available for health care workers interested in the field of
ultrasound training. Several organizations certify sonographers through
registration, but no states require licensure as an ultrasound technician. The
national certification exam is given by the American Registry of Diagnostic
Medical Sonographers (ARDMS), and a bachelor's or associate's degree is required
in order to sit for this exam. After completion, the prospective ultrasound
technologist will become a registered diagnostic medical sonographer (RDMS). The
examination process can consist of tests in obstetric and gynecologic sonography,
neurosonography, and abdominal sonography. The American Registry of Radiologic
Technologists (ARRT) can also test and certify the ultrasound technologist
interested in pursuing continuing education.
Attending an ultrasound
diagnostic school can better prepare students for the credentials required. The
American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) offers four
different credentials and specializations:
-
Registered Diagnosit Medical
Sonographer (RDMS)
-
Registered Vascular
Techologist (RVT)
-
Registered Diagnostic Cardiac
Sonographer (RDCS)
-
Registered Opthalmic
Ultrasound Biometrist (ROUB)
Ultrasound Schools Accreditation
The Joint Review Committee on
Education in Radiologic Technology is the accrediting body for the majority of
ultrasound technician programs and schools. The American Registry of Radiologic
Technologists administers testing, examinations, and certification.
Ultrasound Technician Earning Potential and Employment Prospects
Ultrasound technician school graduates made an average of $43,250
in 2004. Earnings in this field vary depending on skill level, experience,
location, and demand in a particular department. The demand for skilled
ultrasound technicians and ultrasound tech professionals is expected to increase
due to the strong shifts in outpatient care. Related occupations include:
-
Respiratory therapists
-
Cardiovascular technologists
and technicians
-
Diagnostic medical
sonographers
-
Radiation therapists
-
Nuclear medicine
technologists
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