Ultrasound technicians operate ultrasound machines, create reports, and assist doctors in diagnosing and monitoring patients. They require specialized training and certification, and may specialize in certain types of ultrasound imaging. They cannot diagnose or offer medical advice, but provide valuable insight to physicians.
An ultrasound technician or sonographer is a medical professional who has received special training so that they can operate an ultrasound machine and create formal reports on ultrasound imaging studies. The technician may conduct ultrasounds which are used by a doctor to diagnose a patient or monitor an existing condition. Employment prospects in this field tend to be quite good, as ultrasound is a heavily used form of medical imaging and, in the case of ultrasound technicians who have specialized training in a particular type of ultrasound imaging, the salary and benefits can be quite good.
In others, to become an ultrasound technician, someone must attend a one- or two-year program that offers ultrasound training. The program includes hands-on clinical experience, a discussion of how ultrasound works, and anatomy classes where students learn the ins and outs of the human body. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take certification exams that will enable them to practice as an ultrasound technician. Individuals interested in a career as an ultrasound technician should ensure they attend a school that has been accredited.
Many ultrasound technicians have generalized training that allows them to perform ultrasound imaging on a wide variety of patients. Some may choose to receive special certifications in things like obstetric ultrasound or echocardiography. The more additional certifications a technician has, the more employable they will be. Many ultrasound technicians belong to professional organizations and may attend regular lectures, workshops, and conferences to keep abreast of the latest developments in the field.
Ultrasound technicians are not doctors and are not licensed to diagnose or offer medical advice. They help patients prepare for the test, explain what will happen, and then perform the ultrasound study. An ultrasound technician is authorized to answer basic questions relating to anatomy, but cannot offer opinions on what is being seen.
Once the test is done, the ultrasound technician writes a summary of the results and sends them to a doctor, along with still images from the imaging study. Experienced ultrasound technicians often acquire a great deal of knowledge over the course of their careers and often have valuable insight into the imaging study and the implications of some of the things seen on screen. After reviewing the summary of findings, the physician may meet with the patient to discuss the patient’s condition and the implications of the imaging study.
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