Sonography and Ultrasound Technician Training
Sonography and ultrasound technicians assist doctors in diagnosing disease and abnormalities through the use of diagnostic imaging tests. Ultrasound technicians are also called diagnostic medical sonographers and they are trained to operate different types of diagnostic imaging machines that utilize sound waves to generate images. Training for ultrasound technicians usually takes two years, but programs range from one to four years.
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Diagnostic Tests
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Sonographers are taught to produce images of bones, organs and tissues using special equipment. They are taught to direct high-frequency sound waves to a particular part of the body in order to form an image from the reflected echoes. Images produced by these tests may be in the form of photographs, videotapes or electronic images that can be analyzed by physicians. Examples of diagnostic tests performed include X-rays, magnetic resonance and ultrasounds.
Formal Training
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A high school diploma is required to pursue a career in sonography. Many ultrasound technicians are trained through two-year programs at junior colleges or community colleges and obtain an associate's degree,, however four-year bachelor's degree programs are becoming more common. For workers already employed in the health care field, one-year programs are sometimes offered to broaden existing health care training. Training consists of both classroom study and clinical experience. In the classroom, students learn microbiology, pathology, anatomy, physiology and basic patient care. In clinical experience, students are introduced to a variety of diagnostic imaging machines and tests.
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Certification
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Certification is not required but can improve job opportunities and wages. Candidates who wish to obtain certification must complete an associate's degree or bachelor's degree from an accredited training program. Certification is offered through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Students must pass an exam in general physical principles and instrumentation along with an exam in a particular specialty. Passing the exam results in the designation RDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer).
Specialized Training
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Specialized training may be obtained, focusing on a particular type of test or a particular organ or system. Sonographers often specialize in obstetrics and gynecology and run tests to monitor the condition of a woman's reproductive system or the condition and growth of the fetus. Other sonography specialties include neurosonography, ophthalmic sonography and abdominal sonography.
Considerations
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If you are interested in becoming a sonographer, you should have high stamina and the ability to stand on your feet for several hours at a time. You should be able to move or position patients if needed. Those who are thinking of becoming a sonographer should enjoy working with people and have the patience to explain procedures and answer questions. Sonographers should enjoy learning, because continuing education is required to remain current on new developments in the field.
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References
Resources
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