Short for ultrasound technician, an ultrasound tech, or sonographer, is the medical professional that operates the ultrasound machine. An ultrasound tech uses the machine to obtain images of the inside of the body to assist doctors in diagnosing medical images, assisting surgeons during surgeries, and to monitor fetal growth.
Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the ultrasound tech are to record relevant medical history, keep track of patient records, adjust and maintain equipment, assist patients in preparation for the procedure and explain what will occur during the ultrasound, operate the ultrasound machine and retrieve ideal images for the physicians by communicating with the patient on move, and ensuring that obtained images are delivered to the appropriate doctors. Ultrasound techs alternate between small medical offices may also be responsible for keeping track of how many ultrasounds they perform, on what part of the body, the patients' names, and patient insurance information.
Earnings
In 2002, the average annual income of an ultrasound tech was $48,660. Becoming an ultrasound technician means having the potential to bring in more than $66,680 yearly like the top 10 percent of earners in 2002. Ultrasound technicians working in physician's offices earned an average of approximately $2,500 more than technicians employed at hospitals.
Educational and Training Requirements
Two or four year programs in ultrasound technology, or diagnostic medical sonography, are usually required before an ultrasound technician may work in a hospital or doctor's office. Additional training at a hospital, vocational school, or in the armed forces can aid applicants in being hired as ultrasound techs. Many online schools offer courses of study or even degree programs in ultrasound technology. Online schooling is usually coupled with volunteer ultrasound work at a hospital or doctor's office in order to ensure that the student is properly versed in the art before being hired.
Beneficial Skills
Being a people person and knowing calmly configure complex equipment and manage stress are skills and personal talents that would assist a person in a job as an ultrasound tech. Physical stamina to lift, turn, and assist patients of all sizes while they are on the ultrasound table is also a beneficial skill for the job. Having a good sense of humor and ability to make patients feel comfortable and easily direct them in moving while on the bed, can make the job less stressful and also earn the ultrasound tech a great reputation with patients and physicians, allowing the potential for bonuses and pay raises.
Outlook
Jobs in the medical field always have good outlooks because the need for medical professionals will be present until the end of time. As the baby boomer generation is aging and in need of more medical attention, ultrasound technicians and the need for ultrasound techs are expected to grow.
Tags: ultrasound tech, ultrasound technician, assist patients, being hired, doctor office
