Ultrasound technicians must have the knowledge to use ultrasound diagnostic equipment.
Ultrasound technicians use sound waves to create an image for diagnostic purposes. States do not require licensure for ultrasound technicians, but certification can enhance job opportunities. Certification demonstrates the technician's knowledge of the field and specialty procedures in sonography. Ultrasound technicians work in hospitals, physician offices and health care facilities generating diagnostic images for physicians and health care professionals.
Education
An ultrasound technician can obtain an associate or bachelor's degree education in medical sonography to qualify for a position. The student learns anatomy, sonography instrumentation, physiology, physics, ethics and procedures for patient care in a degree program. Candidates may also qualify for a position with a certificate program in sonography, which may take one year to complete.
Certification
An ultrasound technician does not require licensure or certification, but it may improve the job opportunities available to the candidate. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography offers a credential as a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer for candidates who meet the educational requirements along with passing an examination.
Examination
Ultrasound technicians seeking certification must pass an examination to qualify. The examination tests the technician's knowledge and skill using medical diagnostic equipment. For example, the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography uses the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation examination to evaluate candidate's knowledge. The content on the examination includes patient identification, physics, ultrasound transducers and pulse echo instrumentation.
Skills
The ultrasound technician must have good communication skills to explain technical information to patients in a non-technical manner. A good bedside manner is necessary to work with patients during the procedure. An ultrasound technician must be prepared for additional training and education throughout the career to stay up to date on technology and procedures.
Specialties
Ultrasound technicians may specialize in different areas such as obstetrics and gynecology, breast examination, abdomen, fetal echocardiography and neurosonology, according to the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. The technician can advance in the field with certifications in more than one specialty.
Tags: Diagnostic Medical, Ultrasound technicians, American Registry, American Registry Diagnostic, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Sonography