subject: Why Select An Ultrasound Technician Career [print this page] Several years ago a new form of technology entered the medical profession and proved itself to be invaluable. This branch of medicine deals with diagnostic imaging that is vital to the identification of certain medical conditions. Sonographers, which are what those work in the Ultrasound Technician Career field are called, are highly sought after in the medical profession.
Most people are familiar with this field because it is used in obstetrics to view fetuses while they are still in the womb. However, this is only one area where it has come to prove its worth. This special equipment utilizes high-frequency sound waves which enter a person's body and forms echoes that form an image. They are then transmitted to a computer where photographs, videotapes, or immediate viewing can be used to help physicians diagnose problems.
This job requires perfecting skills in many areas. Communicating the procedure to patients and setting them at ease is essential as any shakiness can interfere with the clarity of images. This position also requires recording medical histories, operating equipment, setting the patient up in order to generate the images required, selecting the images to share with the physician, keeping records, and adjusting and making sure the equipment is working properly are all required in this profession.
At one time this equipment was limited in use to obstetrics. However, within the past few years it has expanded to include gynecology, neurology, ophthalmology, gastrointestinal disorders, and much more. This has created a huge demand in the field for qualified technicians. Often their duties are expanded to include evaluating purchases and even managing the department.
An ultrasound technician must be able to understand the equipment, have the physical stamina to lift and manipulate patients, understand what they are seeing and what value it has, and be detail oriented. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries range between $50,000 and $75,000 per year and vary greatly by industry.
To receive the type of pay desired, however, training by a qualified institution is essential. Although no state license is required, there are organizations that provide certification and those who have it and are registered often are ranked higher by hiring committees. To become certified requires passing general and specialty exams as well as continuing their education in this field.
Sonographers most commonly work for hospitals, but can also work with diagnostic imaging centers as well as for individual physicians. The need for people who are willing to select an Ultrasound Technician Career is one of the fastest growing in the medical profession. Not only is it a great way to help people, but once trained, you will always have a job.
