Introduction
Ultrasound technicians, also known as sonographers, play a vital role in healthcare by using sound waves to create images of patients’ internal organs and tissues. These images help doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions, and sonographers are essential members of the healthcare team. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in healthcare and have an interest in technology and imaging, becoming an ultrasound technician may be the perfect career for you. In this guide, we’ll explore the steps necessary to become an ultrasound technician, options for education and certification, and what it’s like to work as a sonographer.
The Complete Guide to Becoming an Ultrasound Technician
The path to becoming an ultrasound technician involves a mixture of formal education and on-the-job training. Here’s a general overview of the steps you’ll need to take to become an ultrasound technician:
- Earn a high school diploma or GED
- Complete a postsecondary education program in diagnostic medical sonography
- Gain clinical experience through an internship or on-the-job training
- Become certified through a professional organization such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)
In addition to these steps, there are also personal qualities that make a successful sonographer, including strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employment of diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow 17 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing demand for diagnostic imaging and an aging population that will require more medical services.
From High School to the Workplace: Roadmap to Becoming an Ultrasound Technician
As with any career, the path to becoming an ultrasound technician begins with a solid foundation in high school. Here are some recommended high school classes for future ultrasound technicians:
- Biology
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Physics
- Math
After graduating from high school, aspiring ultrasound technicians can pursue postsecondary education in diagnostic medical sonography. There are several different education paths available, including certificate programs, associate’s degrees, and bachelor’s degrees.
Certificate programs are the most common education path for ultrasound technicians and typically take around one year to complete. However, they may not provide as comprehensive of an education as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Associate’s degree programs generally take two years to complete and provide a well-rounded education, while bachelor’s degree programs take four years and may offer more advanced coursework and leadership opportunities.
In addition to formal education, clinical experience and on-the-job training are essential for ultrasound technicians. Many schools offer internships or other clinical experiences to supplement their education, and some employers may provide on-the-job training for their newly hired sonographers.
Is Ultrasound Technician a Good Career Choice? What You Need to Know to Break into the Profession
The growth in the healthcare industry and the increasing demand for diagnostic imaging make ultrasound technician a promising career choice. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for diagnostic medical sonographers was $75,920 in May 2020. Sonographers who work in outpatient care centers tend to earn the most, while those who work in physician offices tend to earn less.
In addition to salary expectations, ultrasound technicians can expect flexibility in their work settings. Sonographers can work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices and may work full-time or part-time hours.
To be successful as an ultrasound technician, there are also personal qualities that can make a difference. Sonographers must have strong communication skills to explain procedures to patients and work well in a team environment with other healthcare professionals. They must also be detail-oriented to ensure that images are of high quality and be able to work well under pressure.
Pros and Cons of Different Ultrasound Technician Education Paths
As mentioned earlier, there are several different education paths available for aspiring ultrasound technicians. Here are some pros and cons of each education path:
- Certificate programs: Pros – Shorter time to completion, lower cost. Cons – May not provide as comprehensive of an education as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, may be less competitive in the job market.
- Associate’s degrees: Pros – Well-rounded education, may be preferred by some employers, more competitive in the job market. Cons – May take longer to complete and be more expensive than certificate programs.
- Bachelor’s degrees: Pros – Advanced coursework and leadership opportunities, may be preferred by some employers, may lead to managerial positions. Cons – Typically the longest and most expensive education path.
How to Ace the Ultrasound Technician Certification Exam: Tips and Resources
Certification is not required to become an ultrasound technician, but it is strongly recommended. Certification can help increase employment opportunities and demonstrate an individual’s commitment to the profession. The ARDMS offers several certifications for ultrasound technicians, including Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) and Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT). To become certified, individuals must pass a certification exam.
To prepare for the certification exam, there are several resources available. The ARDMS offers study materials and practice exams on their website, and there are also many review books and courses available. It’s important to dedicate sufficient time to studying and prepare for the exam thoroughly.
What to Expect on the Job as an Ultrasound Technician: A Day in the Life of a Sonographer
The daily tasks of an ultrasound technician may vary depending on their workplace and the types of exams they perform, but here is a general overview of what to expect:
- Reviewing patient medical histories and answering any questions they may have about the procedure
- Preparing patients for imaging procedures
- Performing ultrasound exams while ensuring high-quality images
- Analyzing and interpreting images and sharing results with physicians
- Maintaining equipment and ensuring a clean and safe work environment
Ultrasound technicians may also work with different types of patients, from infants to elderly patients, and perform a range of exams, from abdominal ultrasounds to obstetric sonography. Working as an ultrasound technician can be challenging, as they may need to work with patients who are uncomfortable or in pain, but it can also be rewarding to help patients receive a diagnosis and start treatment.
Conclusion
Ultrasound technicians play a crucial role in healthcare and their imaging skills are in high demand. If you are interested in pursuing a career as an ultrasound technician, there are a variety of education options and certification processes available. By completing a comprehensive education program and gaining on-the-job experience, you can gain the skills necessary to become a successful sonographer and help patients receive the healthcare they need.