An ultrasound technician performs ultrasounds on the heart to diagnose and treat cardiovascular diseases. To become an echo technician, one must obtain an associate’s degree, complete courses in anatomy, physiology, and ultrasound physics, and gain hands-on experience. Echo technicians can work with pediatric or adult patients and may become a Principal Echo Technician with experience.
An ultrasound technician performs ultrasounds on the heart, assisting the doctor in diagnosing and treating diseases related to the cardiovascular system. To become an echo technician, a person can go to secondary school to obtain an associate’s degree in this particular field. Standard courses in an echo technician program include classes in anatomy and physiology, pathology, medical terminology, and ultrasound physics. Standard courses in addition to the basic education courses must be taken by a student if he wishes to become an echo technician.
Associate degree programs in this field can be completed in two years. The program usually includes opportunities to work in hospitals to receive hands-on experience. Those with high school degrees who want to become an echo technician may sometimes be able to receive on-the-job training for an echo technician position, but most employers prefer to hire a candidate with a bachelor’s degree in eco technology or a similar field.
It is the ultrasound technician’s responsibility to capture images inside the body using special ultrasound equipment. These images are used by the doctor to determine if the patient is suffering from any disease. The ultrasound technician must ensure that the images are clear and easy for the doctor to view. The technician may also consult with the patient in order to compile a medical history for him or her.
Anyone who wants to become an echo technician can work in several areas. Graduates of a program can work as pediatric echo technicians or adult echo technicians. Pediatric ultrasound technicians perform ultrasound scans on children to determine if the young patients have heart disease. Technicians who choose to work with children must complete additional courses and register with the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.
Technicians may choose to work primarily with adult patients and become an Adult Echo Technician. Using ultrasound procedures, the technician diagnoses heart muscles and coronary artery disease in adult patients. Whether ultrasound technicians work with children or adults, they must be proficient in the use of ultrasound equipment and have the ability to work closely with the physician to diagnose disease. Because they deal with patients on a daily basis, they must possess strong communication skills and the ability to treat patients in a kind yet professional manner.
Once an Echo Technician has accumulated a sufficient amount of experience, they may choose to become a Principal Echo Technician. This senior-level technician supervises other Echo Technicians, ensuring that all technicians follow established procedures and regulations. Lead Echo Technicians earn higher salaries than regular Echo Technicians as they take on a leadership role within the medical facility.
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