Ultrasound Technologist jobs and training

Ultrasound Technologist - General Information

Ultrasound is a diagnostic medical procedure which utilizes high frequency sound waves to visualize images of organs, tissue, and blood flow inside the body. As ultrasound does not require radiation exposure, it is a preferred diagnostic tool for many disorders.

The ultrasound technologist is a trained medical professional responsible operating the sonography equipment and physically performing the ultrasound scans on patients. The ultrasound technologist may also be referred to as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, sonographer, or simply ultrasound technician.

The technologist will have a background in anatomy and physiology, be trained in ultrasound scanning techniques, operation of ultrasound equipment, infection control, patient care, and the ability to provide basic interpretation of ultrasound scans. Ultrasound technologists generally work under close supervision of a radiologist or other medical doctor.

Ultrasound Technologist Training

Ultrasound technologist training will generally range from 2-4 year period and will consist of both classroom and clinical training. College based programs are available leading to and Associates or Bachelors degree. In some cases it may be preferable to earn a degree in a related health science prior to starting ultrasound training. Certificate (non-degree) programs are also offered in many areas. While two years is the average training period, different programs may have different requirements. Certification is available for qualified ultrasound technologists through ARDMS (American Registry for Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographers).

There are a number of specialized areas within the field of ultrasonography, among them Abdominal Sonography, Obstetric-Gynecological Sonography, and Cardiovascular Sonography. These fields do require advanced training and certification beyond basic ultrasound training.

Ultrasound Technologist Jobs

Ultrasound technologist jobs may be found in hospitals, private physician offices, diagnostic imaging centers, and women's health centers. Available job opportunities are somewhat dependent on specialization. For example, womens health centers are more likely to employ ultrasound technologists skilled on OB-GYN, while cardiologists would tend to employ those certified in cardiovascular sonography. Also,some employers may give preference to applicants with an ultrasound or related lealthcare degree.

In general, it is anticipated that the job market for ultrasound technologists will be higher than average for most professions through the year 2014, due in part to the increased diagnostic needs of an aging population and technical advances in medical sonography.