2012年9月2日 星期日

Ultrasound Programs - An Overview For Prospective Students


Ultrasound imaging or sonography is a diagnostic imaging tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to generate visual images within the human body. The obtained visual information is used to determine and evaluate the patient's health condition. A diagnostic medical sonographer administers the examination by moving a probe called a transducer over a specified body area that is initially applied with a thick conducting gel. In certain ultrasound tests, the probe is inserted into a body cavity. Also known as an ultrasound technician, the sonographer is not only responsible for providing physicians with medical images through the use of ultrasound waves but also for interpreting the results of the diagnostic test. The images obtained are integrated with the patient's clinical data in order to come up with a reliable summary that is submitted to a qualified physician for diagnosis. Thus, ultrasound sonographers and physicians work closely together to achieve an accurate diagnosis. Ultrasound techs also work with the entire health care team to ensure that the best patient care is being delivered.

Ultrasound sonographers have a wide-ranging role in the field of health care. In addition to preparing the patients for the test and administering the procedure, they must effectively communicate to patients what to expect during the examination to put them at ease. They must obtain accurate medical histories and clearly explain the instructions of the physicians. Moreover, ultrasound techs are required to assist in scheduling, record-keeping and archiving of the images.

It cannot be denied that sonographers have a significant role in patient care since the accuracy of each ultrasound exam mainly relies on their technical knowledge and skills. Thus, it is essential that ultrasound technologists undergo intensive training and preparation before they can handle actual examinations. This is made possible by obtaining education and experience from institutions where interested students can obtain ultrasound degrees. Community colleges, universities, hospitals, medical centers, and the Armed Forces offer ultrasound programs that can prepare and sharpen the skills of prospective sonographers. A student can either attend formal educational ultrasound classes or receive on-the-job training. It is worth mentioning that allied healthcare professionals can also obtain a diploma in ultrasound sonography by receiving appropriate ultrasound training for a year.

Educational ultrasound programs are approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs or CAAHEP. The length of study depends on the type of ultrasound degree or program. Diagnostic medical sonography certification programs can be obtained by healthcare professionals after a year of training. An associate degree in medical sonography is attained after 2 years, while a baccalaureate degree is achieved after 4 years of study and training. Most prospective sonographers complete a two-year medical ultrasound program, culminating in an associate degree.

The curriculum depends on the ultrasound degree that is being work on by the student. Typically, ultrasound curriculums include the physical principles of ultrasound, basic and advanced physics and instrumentation, techniques in imaging, biological effects of ultrasound, human anatomy and physiology, histology, pathophysiology, sonography patient care, emergency care, ultrasound applications and limitations, and image evaluation and administration.




To learn more about ultrasound programs and taking ultrasound classes visit http://www.ultrasoundclasses.net.





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