|
Sonographers use ultrasound equipment to direct
high frequency sound waves into specific areas of a patient's body
to produce images of the shape, position, or movement of organs,
fluid accumulations, masses, or fetuses.
These images may be stored on a video, printouts,
or digital storage devices. A physician reviews the images to assist
in making the patient's diagnosis.
Responsibilities for sonographers could include
selection and set up of appropriate equipment, explaining the procedure
to patients, assisting patients in assuming the correct physical
position, and putting patients at ease. During the procedures, they
observe the real time image being produced on a screen, and make
proper adjustments to ensure a clear image.
Sonographer
Areas of Specialization
Sonographers may specialize in examining specific areas of the body.
Some examples are neuro-sonography (brain), cardiac sonography (heart),
ophthalmic sonography (eyes), obstetrical/gynecological sonography
(pregnant and non-pregnant uterus), and vascular sonography (blood
vessels).
Work Environment
Most sonographers work 40-hour weeks though part-time positions
are available. They may also have evening, weekend, or on-call hours.
Places of employment include hospitals, doctors' offices, and imaging
centers. Ultrasounds are performed in emergency rooms, operating
rooms, patient's bedside, and hospital imaging departments.
Job Outlook
The number of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers employed in Florida
in 2006 was 3,948. It is projected that in 2014 there will be 5,086.
This represents an annual average growth rate of 3.6 percent.
Length of Training/Requirements
There are a variety of educational settings in which to gain ultrasound
education including four-year bachelor's degree, two-year associate
degrees, and one-year certificates. Some of the certificate programs
are designed for individuals from other health occupations who decide
to change fields. Most programs prefer applicants with backgrounds
in science, however, those with liberal arts backgrounds or high
school graduates with courses in math and science may be considered.
The curriculum includes courses in sonography physics, applications
of ultrasound, instrumentation, abdominal sonography, sonographic
cross sectional anatomy, patient care, and sonographic clinical
practicum, with additional courses in a specialty area (i.e. abdominal
sonography, echocardiography).
Advancement
With additional education and experience, sonographers may become
educators, researchers, and administrators.
Licensure/Certification
Graduates of accredited programs are eligible to apply for the examination
and certification offered by the American Registry of Diagnostic
Medical Sonographers. Certification is voluntary; however, many
employers prefer hiring certified sonographers. Continuing education
hours (30) are required every three to maintain certification. The
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers certification
in Diagnostic Sonography as well as either a primary pathway or
a post-primary certification with a radiography certification.
Salary
According to the Florida Hospital Association, the average hourly
wage for sonographers was $27.60 in 2005.
Updated: 2007 |
