Some sonographers specialize in neurosonology, which is used to capture images of the brain and spine.
Sonography is a diagnostic medical procedure that utilizes high frequency sound waves to create images of internal organs and tissues inside the body. Healthcare professionals who perform sonography testing are known as sonographers, and play a key role in detecting a variety of diseases and health issues. Sonographers may specialize in a variety of areas, including abdomen, breast, obstetrics and gynecology, echocardiography, vascular technology, neurosonology and ophthalmology. They work with both patients who are seriously ill and those who are healthy, such as pregnant women. Sonographers require formal training, which usually takes place at a community college.
Duties
Sonographers use specialized equipment to generate images of organs, tissues and other structures within the body that are then utilized by doctors to diagnose patients. Sonographers place a small instrument known as a transducer on the patient’s skin in the area that requires imaging. The transducer emits a stream of high frequency sound waves that reflect off internal structures and then picks up the waves that are bounced back. The computer feeds the sound waves through, and then performs an analysis and creates an image of the internal structures on a television screen. In addition to performing these procedures, sonographers must record thorough patient histories and provide a written or oral report on the findings of sonography testing. They work directly with patients and communicate with doctors and other health care professionals about test results.
Education
Sonographers may receive formal training at vocational schools; colleges or universities; and hospitals. Both associate and bachelor’s degrees are offered in sonography, though most sonographers earn an associate degree. Sonography programs usually include classes in physiology, anatomy, basic physics, patient care, instrumentation and medical ethics. Those interested in a career in sonography should choose a training program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs to ensure that it meets professional standards within the field. Individuals with experience in the health care field may earn a certificate in sonography from a vocational school, which often improves their employment opportunities.
Certification
Sonographers are not required to be licensed, but many choose to obtain certification and become a registered sonographer. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) offers voluntary certification. Candidates must complete an approved training program or demonstrate proof of professional experience in the field. In addition, they must pass a certification exam. Those who fulfill these requirements earn the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) credential. It may be earned in all areas of sonography specialization.
Working Conditions
Sonographers work in hospitals, clinics and other health care facilities. They may work with diagnostic imaging machines or at patients’ bedsides. The job can be physically demanding because they must stand for much of the day and lift or move immobile patients. Most sonographers work standard 40-hour weeks, but overtime may sometimes be required. Some may also work on call shifts, which require them to be available on nights and weekends should an emergency arise.
Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers was $61,980 as of May 2008. The highest 10 percent were paid more than $83,950, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $43,600. The middle 50 percent were paid between $52,570 and $73,680.
Employment Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment for diagnostic medical sonographers will grow by 18 percent through 2018, which is a faster rate than the average for all occupations. With a growing elderly population, the demand for diagnostic imaging testing will continue to increase. In addition, more and more doctors will utilize ultrasound imaging because it costs less and has fewer harmful side effects than radiological testing. Sonographers who have more than one specialty and are willing to relocate should enjoy the best opportunities.
Tags: health care, sound waves, They work, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics
