What does an Ultrasonographer do?
Published 3 min read
An Ultrasonographer is a medical professional who uses ultrasound technology to create images of the human body for diagnostic purposes.
Ultrasonographer job duties include:
- Clean and maintain equipment.
- Operate equipment to produce images of the body for diagnostic purposes.
- Explain procedures to patients and answer any questions they have.
- Adjust settings on the machine as needed to get clear images.
- Monitor patients during procedures and report any unusual reactions to the physician.
- Keep accurate records of examinations.
- Select appropriate views and angles for each image.
- Identify anatomical structures in images.
- Report findings to physicians.
Ultrasonographer Job Requirements
An Ultrasonographer is a medical professional who uses ultrasound technology to produce images of the human body for diagnostic purposes. Ultrasonographers must have at least an Associate's degree from an accredited ultrasound program, although many employers prefer candidates with a Bachelor's degree. Certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is also required. Ultrasonographers must have strong communication and customer service skills, as they will be working closely with patients. Prior experience in the medical field is preferred but not required.
Ultrasonographer Skills
- Patient interaction
- Proper equipment handling
- Anatomy and physiology knowledge
- In-depth understanding of medical conditions
- Image analysis
- Report writing
- Communication with other medical staff
- Patient assessment
- Procedure planning
- Problem solving
- Attention to detail
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How to become an Ultrasonographer
Ultrasonographers are medical professionals who use ultrasound technology to produce images of the inside of the human body. Ultrasound is a type of sound waves that are too high-pitched for humans to hear. When these waves bounce off of organs and other tissues, they create echoes. The echoes are then converted into electrical signals, which are used to create images on a computer screen.
Becoming an ultrasonographer requires completing a two-year accredited program, which can be done at many community colleges and technical schools. After completing the program, students must then pass a national certification exam in order to become licensed. Some states also require licensure.
The best way to prepare for a career as an ultrasonographer is to complete a two-year accredited program at a community college or technical school. During your studies, you will learn how to operate ultrasound equipment and how to produce images of the inside of the human body. You will also take courses in anatomy and physiology, so that you can better understand the structures you will be imaging. After completing your program, you should sit for the national certification exam in order to become licensed. Some states also require licensure.
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