Responsibilities of sonographers include assisting surgeons during operations and using diagnostic imaging equipment to examine patients.
Sonographers or ultrasonographers are highly trained medical professionals. Operating sophisticated diagnostic imaging equipment to assess the medical conditions of patients requires experience and training. The profession requires an in-depth comprehension of pathology, anatomy and physiology. Sonographers must also be empathetic, patient and enjoy interacting with patients. Many sonographers are employees or contract workers at hospitals, medical clinics and laboratories. A medical diagnostic sonographer can expect to make an annual average salary of $61,980 according to BLS and employment is expected to grow 20 percent through 2018.
Diagnostic Imaging
Diagnostic medical sonographers use a specialized device known as a transducer which emanates high frequency sound waves through the area of the body being examined. When the sound waves reach the part of the body being evaluated, an image is created by a computer based on the vibrations. This process is commonly referred to as an ultrasound. The recorded images and analytical results are forwarded to the physician so that a medical diagnosis can be determined.
Patient Care
Sonographers must have strong communication skills due to close interactions with patients. Patients are interviewed by sonographers for the purpose of obtaining an accurate medical history. During the examination, the sonographer talks to the patients to let them know which positions will help them retrieve the clearest images. Sonographers are also responsible for determining if further tests need to be performed to accurately assess the patient's condition.
Managerial Duties
Managing the overall functioning of diagnostic centers and overseeing staff members' schedules may fall under a sonographer's responsibilities. When a surgeon has difficulty viewing certain areas of the patient's body during surgery, sonographers provide assistance. Their overall judgment and collaboration with medical staff is integral in providing high-quality care to the patients.
Physical Requirements
Physical strength and stamina is needed for this position, since a sonographer may stand for extended periods of time and maneuver patients during examinations. Good eyesight is imperative because this technician must choose images that will help the physician accurately assess the patient's medical condition. Excellent hearing is also an asset since it allows the distinguishing of the different sounds coming from the equipment when the patient is being examined.
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