How to Become an Ultrasound Tech

Ultrasound techs, or sonographers, are highly trained healthcare professionals. They have a good understanding of ultrasound physics, physiology and anatomy, and pathology. Diagnostic medical sonography is a unique career because it requires that one be "book smart" and visual. They are, essentially, medical photographers because they must figure out how to obtain the images they need, with each patient being different, and how to present the focus of their images. Sonographers generally make between $50,000 and $60,000 per year, although starting wages may be lower, and those who specialize may make considerably more.

Ultrasound produces two-dimensional images, with the second dimension always being depth. It is a different way of seeing that requires excellent eye-hand coordination. Sonographers select different cameras for different examinations, and they choose different frequencies and other settings based on their patients.

The process of becoming a sonographer is really quite simple, although the actual application of the process requires much dedication and skill.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Make yourself competitive. Diagnostic medical sonography programs are quite competitive. Before applying, make yourself a desirable candidate. If your high school grades are less than exceptional, take some college courses to establish a college record. Establishing a grade point average of 4.0 is ideal. In some programs, the lowest accepted GPA has been no lower than a 3.8.

2. Apply for an accredited program. While a two-year applied science program with a concentration in diagnostic medical sonography is acceptable, you will not be board registry eligible upon graduation. If you apply to an accredited program, you can take your board exam upon graduation.

3. Complete your didactic and clinical training. Diagnostic medical sonography programs include classroom work including patient care, anatomy and physiology, and specific ultrasound courses. You will also be placed in a hospital with a registered sonographer. This is where you will develop hands-on experience with patient care and scanning.

4. Two to three months before graduation, send your resume to several potential employers. Most employers will hire new graduates with a contract clause of sitting for the registry exam within one year of employment.

5. Sit for the registry exam. While many technicians choose not to do this, there are more opportunities available to registered technicians. Most traveling tech services require registered sonographers. Some hospitals have a higher wage scale for registered sonographers.

Tips & Warnings

• Some clinical instructors may challenge you, personally. Always show interest, ask questions, and do what they tell you.
• An incredibly book smart person does not necessarily make a great scanner.

Resources

• American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography
• How to Become a Phlebotomy Technician

[starlet67]

on 7/11/2009 This information was very helpful. It describes the nature of the work and the training required to enter into the field. 5 Stars!

[jbechtold]

on 6/6/2009 Great work! I looked into this years ago and well decided it was not for me. But this article would have saved me some time looking all over the place for information.

[joanhaines]

on 5/23/2009 Excellent information on a fascinating career opportunity!