One of the most in-demand careers in the medical field today is that of an ultrasound technician. When someone hears the word “ultrasound” they automatically think of pregnancy and those fuzzy images of fetuses in utero, but ultrasound technicians also assist in processing many other images, which are used in diagnosing health issues which doctors are unable to directly observe. Working in the ultrasound field also warrants an entry level income that is fairly high-around $80,000 a year.

Ultrasound technician schools are actually training programs offered by community colleges, four year universities, and some vocational schools, where an individual can elect to specialize in areas of sonography (ultrasound) such as obstetric, abdominal, nervous system and cardiology. Training within these programs involve clinical knowledge of the ultrasound procedure and internships which give the student the opportunity actually to practice on patients and gain experience in the real world. An ultrasound technician could also choose to enroll in advanced ultrasound technician schools, which offer instruction in medical office assisting and various administrative skills.

Fundamental topics of an ultrasound technician program which are taught both in lecture and laboratory include physiology, anatomy, medical terminology, principles of ultrasound technology (Doppler Effect), and even basic physics. Disinfecting procedures, good communication skills, and the application of ethical systems to the health care field are also discussed in an accredited program. Although an ultrasound technician primarily administers the ultrasound, he is not qualified to read and offer diagnoses of ultrasound scans. However, with enough experience as an ultrasound technician, he or she may become proficient at interpreting a scan without further education.

An internship at a local hospital or other relevant medical facility is usually taken by the student when he or she is finished with the program, where they can train under the supervision of a certified ultrasound technician or even a doctor. As something apportioned by the school, this unpaid work experience will run around 950 hours or roughly forty hours a week for six months. If the student completes this internship and receives at least a satisfactory rating from his or her supervisor, then he will be able to take an examination which will grant a certificate or diploma qualifying him to be a professional ultrasound technician who can legally practice his trade.

Most ultrasound technician schools operate in the same manner but may differ slightly in the way coursework is taught and completed. A few of these programs will emphasize the instrumental and technological aspect of ultrasound; others, while satisfactorily teaching you the operation of an ultrasound machine, will accentuate the importance of successful communication with patients, nurses, doctors, and others which you may work alongside in a medical facility. Depending on which you prefer to study, you will need to research the curriculum offered by the many different educational institutions to find out what they are offering. Making an appointment with a guidance counselor will also assist you in making the right choice regarding the right school and program for you.

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Category: Career
Keywords: CNA Training, CNA Certification, CNA Training and Certification