|
Trade Schools Directory >
Education & Career Articles Index >
Ultrasound Technician Training: Attending a Sonography School
Ultrasound Technician Training:
Attending a Sonography School
Does the idea of becoming an ultrasound technician fascinate you? If so, read this article and find out the type of education you can expect to get from a sonography school.
General Introduction to the Field
Your first step will be to begin with a general introduction to the field of sonography—also known as ultrasound technology. Sonography is a non-invasive way to diagnose and monitor a host of conditions, including pregnancy, heart abnormalities, and cancerous tumors. Although sonography is most commonly found in hospitals, it is branching out into outpatient clinics and doctors' offices, and replacing more expensive and invasive radiological procedures.
Build a Solid Foundation of Knowledge
As an ultrasound technician, you will operate the equipment that directs high-frequency sound waves into patients' bodies, and generates diagnostic images. Most technicians get the skills they need to perform their jobs within an accredited sonography program, which can last anywhere from one to four years, depending on the type of program you choose. An associate's degree program, which generally takes two years, is the most common type of sonography training.
Through classroom theory and hands-on training, you can learn how to conduct pelvic, abdominal, vascular, and obstetric ultrasounds. You can also build a solid foundation of knowledge in math, anatomy, physiology, patient care, pathology, and more. Plus, most programs provide you with communications training, which can be essential to clearly explaining procedures to patients, and effectively conveying your findings to doctors.
Many programs include clinical rotations that provide you with a real-world setting where you can practice your skills using a transducer (hand-held device) to scan appropriate areas of the patient's body. You can also develop your ability to analyze the images for any irregularities.
Specialize in a Specific Area
Within your sonography program, there may be an opportunity to specialize in a particular area of ultrasound technology. There are many areas of specialization, generally differentiated by their focus on a specific anatomical region, including:
- Abdominal: Internal organs, such as the gallbladder, spleen, liver, kidneys,
and pancreas
- Neuro: Brain and nervous system
- Cardiac: Heart. Sometimes these technicians specialize to the point of
becoming cardiovascular technologists
- Vascular: Blood vessels and the circulatory system
- Obstetrics and gynecology: Female reproductive system
- Breast: Cancer detection
You could also consider first completing a general program that will provide you with the skills you need to get into the field, learn what particular area interests you, and then go back and specialize if necessary. Or, you can gain on-the-job training within a specialty area of sonography.
Preparing for Certification
Although there are no national standards regarding certification for sonographers, it's still a good idea to attend a school that can prepare you for this important credential. Certification is one of the best ways to show your mastery of essential skills, and it can go a long way in helping you get hired over non-certified candidates. You can also earn a higher salary, and have greater access to opportunities for advancement.
One of the most well-known certifying organizations is the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
Choose a Sonography School
Now that you have a better understanding of what you can expect to learn at a sonography school, browse this guide to ultrasound technician programs today, and find the one that fits your interests and career goals!
© 2001 - 2012 Beelineweb.com
Trade Schools Site Map |
Programs |
Blog
|
