What
is sonography?
Ultrasonography, commonly called sonography, is a diagnostic medical
procedure that uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to produce
dynamic visual images of organs, tissues, or blood flow inside the
body. This type of procedure is often referred to as a sonogram
or ultrasound scan. Sonography can be used to examine many parts
of the body, such as the abdomen, breasts, female reproductive system,
prostate, heart, and blood vessels. Sonography is increasingly being
used in the detection and treatment of heart disease, heart attack,
and vascular disease that can lead to stroke. It is also used to
guide fine needle, tissue biopsy to assist in taking a sample of
cells from an organ for lab testing (for example, a test for cancer
in breast tissue). Unlike X-rays, sonography is a radiation-free
imaging modality.
The non-physician
professionals who perform these procedures are known as sonographers
and vascular technologists (who are sonographers specializing
in imaging and tests of blood vessels).
There are
several areas of specialization in the field of sonography. These
specialty areas are:
Abdomen -
evaluation of all the soft tissues, blood vessels and organs of
the abdominal cavities (for example, liver, spleen, urinary tract,
pancreas)
Breast -
frequently used to evaluate breast abnormalities that are found
with screening or diagnostic mammography
Obstetrics/Gynecology
- evaluation of the female reproductive system
Echocardiography
- evaluation of the anatomy and hemodynamics (blood flow) of the
heart, its valves and related blood vessels
Vascular
Technology - evaluation and analysis of the hemodynamics (blood
flow) of peripheral and abdominal blood vessels
Neurosonology
- evaluation of the brain and spinal cord
Ophthalmology
- evaluation of the eye, including orbital structures and muscles
What does a diagnostic medical sonographer do?
A diagnostic medical sonographer is a highly-skilled professional
who uses specialized equipment to create images of structures inside
the human body that are used by physicians to make a medical diagnosis.
The process involves placing a small device called a transducer
against the patient's skin near the body area to be imaged. The
transducer works like a loudspeaker and microphone because it can
transmit sound and receive sound. The transducer sends a stream
of high frequency sound waves into the body that bounce off the
structures inside. The transducer detects sound waves as they bounce
off the internal structures. Different structures in the body reflect
these sound waves differently. These sounds are analyzed by a computer
to make an image of the structure(s) on a television screen or that
can be recorded on videotape.
Sonographers
have extensive, direct patient contact that may include performing
some invasive procedures. They must be able to interact compassionately
and effectively with people who range from healthy to critically
ill.
The professional
responsibilities include, but are not limited, to:
obtaining
and recording an accurate patient history
performing
diagnostic procedures and obtaining diagnostic images
analyzing
technical information
using independent
judgement in recognizing the need to extend the scope of the procedure
according to the diagnostic findings
providing
an oral or written summary of the technical findings to the physician
for medical diagnosis
providing
quality patient care
collaborating
with physicians and other members of the health care team.
Sonographers
must also be knowledgeable about and limit the risk from possible
exposure to blood and body fluids. Many sonographers also assist
in electronic and clerical scheduling, record keeping, and computerized
image archiving. Sonographers may also have managerial or supervisory
responsibilities.
What are some of the technical standards?
Sonographers and Vascular Technologists must be able to:
Lift more than
50 pounds routinely
Push and pull routinely
Bend and stoop routinely
Have full use of both hands, wrists and shoulders
Distinguish audible sounds
Adequately view sonograms, including color distinctions
Work standing on their feet 80% of the time
Interact compassionately and effectively with the sick or injured
Assist patients on and off examining tables
Communicate effectively with patients and other health care professionals
Organize and accurately perform the individual steps in a sonographic
procedure in the proper sequence
What
are the career opportunities?
Sonography is a dynamic profession that has grown significantly
over the past 20 years. With rapidly developing new technologies
and increased use of diagnostic ultrasound procedures, growth is
projected to continue in the future with employment opportunities
for qualified sonographers in both urban and rural areas nationwide.
Sonographers and vascular technologists can choose to work in clinics,
hospitals, private practice physician offices, public health facilities,
laboratories, and other medical settings performing examinations
in their areas of specialization. Career advancement opportunities
exist in education, administration, research, and in commercial
companies as education/application specialists, sales representatives,
technical advisors, etc.
What are the salaries for sonographers?
In addition to excellent career opportunities, salaries for sonographers
are competitive with or higher than other professionals with similar
levels of education. Recent surveys indicate that an entry-level
sonographer can expect a starting salary in a range of $15.00 to
$18.00 per hour not including benefits. (Salary information is based
on 1998 salary survey data available through the SDMS.)
Salaries vary
depending on years of experience, number of specialties practiced,
as well geographic location. There are opportunities for full-time
and part-time employment.
How long does it take to become a diagnostic medical sonographer?
Comprehensive Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs vary in length
from one to four years depending on the degree or certificate awarded.
Prerequisites also vary among programs from high school diploma
or GED to specific qualifications in a related allied health profession.
The SDMS recommends
that prospective students select a reputable program that follows
minimum curriculum and clinical education standards recognized by
the American Registry of Diagnostic
Medical Sonographers (ARDMS.) The SDMS does not recommend training
programs that provide limited opportunity for students to apply
classroom instruction and technical skills in patient care settings
(clinical rotations). When seeking a reputable program, candidates
might wish to consult the Commission on Accreditation of Allied
Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) which accredits diagnostic medical
sonography programs in the United States. A list of accredited programs
is available on CAAHEP's web site, www.caahep.org.
