What Is an Ultrasound Technician?

Have you found yourself asking this question? What is an ultrasound technician and what do they do? An ultrasound technician is a qualified health care professional who is trained in the operation of imaging equipment. This equipment records and provides internal images of the patient's body for the purpose of providing information in which to assist the doctor in diagnosing medical issues. Ultrasound techs are also referred to as diagnostic medical sonographers, ultrasound technologists and a host of other terms and normally work in hospitals, private medical facilities or independent imaging laboratories. Asking the question what is an ultrasound tech is the first step in determining whether this is an occupation in which you would like to pursue. With this profession comes specific ultrasound education, training and or certification required in order to operate within this field.

When most people think of what an ultrasound technician does the first thing that comes to mind is the role one plays in obstetrics sonography. Even though these technicians are responsible for obtaining the images of an expectant mothers growing fetus, there are a host of other circumstances in which an ultrasound technicians is needed. An ultrasound of the abdomen can also be needed for images of the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen and the abdominal aorta. These images are used to assist with the diagnosis of a range of medical conditions, as well as offer guidance when doing biopsies. Understanding the role of a technician will offer the knowledge needed when determining if this is the career path for you.

Obtaining the best education and training available should be the next step if you feel this is something you would like to pursue. There are several educational avenues to consider when researching entry into this field. These paths include colleges or universities offering allied health programs, vocational training institutions, and training within a hospital or through the Armed Forces. Many hospitals and private facilities prefer applicants have experience within other healthcare professions or have a high school diploma with completed courses in health, science and math. The most widespread option is the 2 year program offered at colleges and universities and both will offer formal training resulting in a degree. Most recently The Commission on Accreditation for Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) have accredited up to 191 training programs across the United States for diagnostic medical sonography and there are 3 accredited online/distance education programs available as well. Some 1 year programs generally result in a certification are also accepted as appropriate education by some employers. Some of these programs are typically helpful to individuals already working within the healthcare field that are looking to enhance their marketability.

Currently no state requires a certification or licensure in diagnostic medical sonography; however individuals can become registered with The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). To become registered with ARDMS you must first be eligible to take the exam by effectively completing the appropriate training, whether it is through education or work experience. ARDMS certifies each individual that passes the examination as a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS). This credential can be acquired in several areas of expertise within this field like the breast, abdomen, nervous system as well as credentials in cardiac and vascular sonography.

In a nutshell finding the answer to what an ultrasound technician is a question typically asked when interested in this amazing profession. If you find yourself asking this question then I insist you delve into more than just what they do, but look deeper into why this career path is such an important part of the healthcare field and what it provides to patients everywhere. I've just given you a peek into this field now I challenge you to take the next step in this process and find out more than just what is a ultrasound tech and find out just what you need to do to find the best school for ultrasound technician training.

Getting the answers you need to the burning questions you may have is key when making big decisions about your educational future. Please take a few moments to visit the site to learn more when asking the question What is a Ultrasound Technician? and while you're there take a look at a few more tips on how to further your Ultrasound Education and what steps you need to take to do so.

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