A Career For Ultrasound Technician
 Whenever there is something wrong happening inside our bodies and doctors need to take a peek
inside without resorting to invasive procedures, one of the most commonly used diagnostic imaging
technology is ultrasound. It is a type of sound wave that is not within the range that humans can
hear but it is a technology that plays a huge role in the field of medicine. And when it comes to
performing diagnostic imaging procedures using this technology, an ultrasound technician or
diagnostic medical sonographer is the healthcare professional that is immediately called upon. The
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 44 percent employment growth rate (2010 to 2020) for
this occupation.
Through the help of a special imaging device, an ultrasound technologist
harnesses the power of sound waves in order to capture detailed images of the internal areas of
the human body. Doctors make use of the images that diagnostic medical sonographers have
captured so that they can properly diagnose patients and recommend the best mode of treatment
for it. Sonographers ensure that patients are prepped up for the imaging procedure – this
includes taking their medical history, explaining the procedure to them, and applying a special
gel on the area to be diagnosed. They are not qualified though to explain the results of the
imaging to patients. For people interested on how to become a radiology tech, getting
sufficient ultrasound training will be the first order of business. Since this role is a very
technical one, acquiring the best possible education and training is highly recommended.
Ultrasound schools offer a wide variety of training programs that can culminate in acquiring
either an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in sonography. For those who are already working in
the healthcare field, going through shorter certificate programs will usually suffice. If
possible, try to earn a degree or certificate from a reputable institute offering accredited
training programs because this is what many employers look for nowadays. While enrolled in
ultrasound technician schools, you can expect to learn how to properly use and maintain
sonographic equipment, capture clear images of the body, calculate values, and interpret the
images you have captured. In addition to classroom sessions, you will also be going through
clinical training in order to immerse you in the real work setting and give you preliminary
opportunities to apply everything that you have learned from your lectures. Once you graduate
from your training program, you can opt to apply for professional certification. Becoming
certified can help demonstrate your competency and proficiency while also opening doors to
better ultrasound tech jobs. An individual who is aspiring to become a diagnostic medical
sonographer will also need to have specific attributes which are necessary to properly perform
his duties and responsibilities. Since diagnostic imaging involves a lot of technicalities,
being detail-oriented is of utmost importance. One must be able to follow instructions carefully
and have excellent hand to eye coordination in order to come up with the best possible images of
the body. Sonographers will also be spending a lot of time interacting with patients,
particularly when they are guiding them throughout the imaging process. Therefore, good
communication skills will be very useful in this profession.
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