Ultrasound technicians often work in obstetrics, making ultrasound images of the fetus.
Ultrasound technicians, officially known as diagnostic medical sonographers, use equipment that emits sound waves to create an image of a patient's body part based on the reflected waves. Sonographers explain procedures to patients, use a transducer to create the ultrasound images and observe these images on a screen. They choose images to show a physician for diagnostic purposes and also take various measurements and calculations. No license is required, but many employers prefer ultrasound technicians who are certified and registered.
Instructions
1. Obtain a high school diploma. Focus on math, science and health classes during high school to increase your chances of being accepted to a sonography training program following graduation.
2. Complete an ultrasound technician program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Visit the CAAHEP website for a list accredited schools in your state. The ultasound technician program can be part of a two-year associate degree program or a four-year bachelor's degree program. A 12-month certificate program also is available for those already trained in the health-care field and want to learn sonography as well.
3. Obtain certification to become a registered sonographer. States do not license ultrasound technicians, but employers prefer registered sonographers. To earn certification, meet the education standards, usually an associate or bachelor's degree, and pass the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) examination administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Visit the ARDSM website for examination registration requirements. Once you pass the test, you become registered in the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Apply for positions at hospitals or private physicians' offices.
4. Consider further certification to advance in your career. Ultrasound technician specialties include cardiac, vascular, breast, obstetric or neurosonography. Multiple credentials increase a technician's chances of advancing to managerial or supervisory positions. Visit the ARDMS website for certification options.
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