Information on Ultrasound Techs
Ultrasound techs, also known as diagnostic medical sonographers, work in hospitals, doctors' offices, medical facilities and diagnostic laboratories. They perform tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), sonograms and X-rays. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), ultrasound tech positions are expected to increase by approximately 19 percent through 2016.
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Job Description
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Ultrasound technicians are medical professionals that use soundwave producing equipment on patients for tests ordered by a physician. In addition, ultrasound techs, "may specialize in specific areas of patient care such as gynecologic and obstetric sonography, ophthalmic sonography, echocardiosonography or neurosonography," according to Degree Directory.
Skills
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Ultrasound techs should have good interpersonal communication skills to explain test procedures and results to patients. Having good hand-eye coordination is also helpful to capture accurate images. Ultrasound techs should also have good analytical skills to be able to convey test findings to physicians. In addition, they should be in good physical condition to be able to move 50 lbs. on a routine basis, have good hearing and color vision, and be able to work standing up for the majority of the work day.
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Education
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According to BLS, the ultrasound tech position, "is an occupation where there is no preferred level of education and several avenues of education are widely accepted by employers."
Ultrasound techs receive training in hospitals, vocational schools and in the military. In addition, colleges and universities offer 2- and 4-year programs. Some of the coursework includes anatomy, physiology, medical ethics and patient care.
Certification
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There is no state certification required to become an ultrasound tech, however, many employers prefer to hire a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS). A RDMS has received credentials and registration from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and has taken an exam on general sonography principles. A RDMS has also taken an exam for a specific area of expertise, such as abdominal sonography or neurosonography. In addition, a RDMS is required to take annual continuing education courses to stay abreast of technological developments in sonography.
Employment Outlook
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Hospitals will continue to be the main employer for ultrasound techs, but employment is expected to increase in diagnostic imaging centers and diagnostic laboratories due to the shift toward outpatient care and technological advances in sonographic equipment. As of 2006, there were 46,000 ultrasound techs employed and that number is expected to grow to 54,000 by 2016, according to BLS. According to BLS, the median annual salary for an ultrasound tech in 2006 was $57,160.
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