Sonographers (ultrasound technologists) use complex equipment to direct high frequency sound waves into specific body areas to produce images that show the shape and position of fetuses, internal organs, fluid accumulation or masses. These images are used by physicians to make diagnoses. Many sonographers, especially those who work in large institutions, specialize in examining specific areas of the body. Examples include neurosonology (brain), echocardiography (heart), obstetrics/gynecology (female pelvis) and vascular (arteries and veins). Sonographers work under the supervision of a physician or senior sonographer.
• check patients’ medical histories and prior test results.
• select and set up appropriate test equipment.
• plan procedures and explain them to patients.
• determine the proper patient position and transducer selection to achieve
accurate test results.
• complete the scan while observing the screen to make sure that the image
produced is satisfactory for diagnostic purposes.
• operate equipment that produces photographs or printout (ultra-sonograms)
Sonographers may work in a laboratory, an examination room, at bedside or in surgery.
$37,000 – $50,000
Students intending to pursue a career as a sonographer should prepare by taking the most challenging high school courses available in science, math and English. Students must be a graduate of a two-year accredited health care program.The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers is the nationally recognized certification body for ultrasound. Three credentials are available to eligible sonographers: Registered Diagnostic
Medical Sonographer (RDMS), Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS), Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT). In many cases, these credentials are required for employment.
American Registry of Diagnostic
600 Jefferson Plaza, Suite 360
Rockville, MD 20852
Society of Diagnostic Medical
12770 Colt Road, Suite 708
Dallas, TX 75251
(972) 239-7367 or 1-800-229-9506