|
|
CareerPaths
Medical Sonographer
Medical Sonographers are employed in a variety of settings including hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers. They work in a variety of specialized areas depending on training and experience.
Job Information
Diagnostic Medical Imaging embraces several procedures that aid physicians in diagnosing illness and disease. The most familiar area is x-ray. Another increasingly common diagnostic imaging method is known as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). This technique uses magnetic and radio waves instead of radiation to create an image. Sonography, is the use of sound waves (ultrasound) to help create an image. This technique is most commonly associated with obstetrics and viewing of the fetus in the womb. There are however, many other applications in addition to obstetric and gynecologic sonography, which is the study of the female reproductive system.
Abdominal sonography is used to inspect a patient’s abdominal cavity to help diagnose and treat conditions associated with the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, bile ducts, spleen, and pancreas.
Cardiac sonography helps produce images of the heart and surrounding areas. This enables a physician to help diagnose heart disease, or problems affecting the blood supply to or from the heart.
Neurosonography is used to help evaluate the nervous system, including the brain. The most common use of this specialty is to help diagnose neurological and nervous system disorders in premature infants.
Ophthalmologic sonographers use ultrasound to study the eyes. This technology is used to aid in the insertion of prosthetic lenses by allowing accurate measurement of the eyes. This procedure can also be used to help diagnose tumors, blood supply conditions, separated retinas, and other ailments of the eye and surrounding tissue.
Vascular technology is another area utilizing this procedure. In this specialty, images are created of the circulatory system. Vascular Technologists can also sometimes examine a patient’s blood vessels after surgery to help ensure proper function. Vascular Technologists examine blood flow in parts of the body other than the heart – which is a function of the Cardiac Sonographer.
Medical Sonographers use very specialized equipment called a transducer, which transmits sound waves in a cone or rectangular shaped beam. Some types of transducers, their operation and calibration vary depending on their usage. The technologist produces the images and looks for subtle visual clues that will aid the physician in making a proper diagnosis. Technologists help to document medical information, prepare and adjust equipment and work with physicians to produce suitable diagnostic images. Having excellent customer service skills is important as Medical Sonographers must work directly with the patient to explain the procedure and put them at ease.
Work Environment
Medical Sonographers work in a clean, neat, well- lit environment. Occasionally, they work in mobile vans or with portable equipment. Some travel to patient’s homes. They often stand for long periods of time, and must be physically fit as they sometimes have to help properly position disabled patients.
Job Outlook/Advancement
Employment opportunities are expected to increase as the healthcare needs of an aging population continue to increase. New technology that will provide three-dimensional imaging will provide the opportunity to learn and work with state-of-the-art equipment. The opportunity to specialize and cross-train into other areas either within this specific career field, or into other areas of imaging provide additional chances for a varied career path. Sonographers will continue to be employed primarily in hospitals, however physician’s offices, clinics and special diagnostic imaging centers will also offer a variety of settings for the career Medical Sonographer.
Training Requirements
Although some sonographers have received training on-the-job in hospital settings and from vocational institutions, more formalized training through colleges, universities, and the military is increasingly in demand. Often, a two year Associates degree or four year Bachelor’s degree program is required in order to be considered for employment or advancement. Two year programs are most prevalent. Classes include anatomy, physiology, physics, medical ethics, and patient care. A strong math and science background is helpful, and previous healthcare experience is an added plus. Diagnostic Medical Sonography training may also be obtained as a part of a radiologic technology curriculum.
Licensure/Certification
The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers certifies the competency of sonographers through an examination and registration process. The majority of employers prefer to hire individuals who have met these standards. In order to be eligible for registration, applicants must have completed at least an Associates Degree program.
How Do I Get There?
If you are already a healthcare provider experienced in hands-on patient care, then specialization in Medical Sonography may provide you with additional career mobility. If you have always wanted to move into a highly specialized clinical environment where you can work directly with patients and a talented clinical staff, then a career in Medical Imaging and Medical Sonography may be for you. Training is available locally and you can take advantage of Sentara’s Tuition Assistance Program to help off-set the cost. By taking part-time classes, you can continue to work while you learn. Begin your journey by contacting a local educational institution to learn more about the curriculum and their entrance requirements.
Related Links
American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
600 Jefferson Plaza, Suite 360 Rockville, Md 20852-1150 1-800-541-9754
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
2745 Dallas Pkwy Ste 350 Plano, TX 75093-4706 (214) 473-8057 (800) 229-9506
U.S. Department of Labor
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook
Educational Programs
American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
600 Jefferson Plaza, Suite 360 Rockville, Md 20852-1150 1-800-541-9754
Southwest Virginia Community College
Richlands, VA
The Joint Review Committee on Education for Diagnostic Medical Sonography accredits formal training programs. For a complete listing of available programs, refer to their website
Tidewater Community College
Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth and Chesapeake, VA
|
|