What is an Ultrasonographer?

An x-ray technician is a professional who works in the hospital to perform imaging tests on patients by request from medical personnel for diagnostic purposes. They operate x-ray equipment to get images of different areas of the body. They adjust x-ray machines as needed to ensure clear and accurate imaging. They also evaluate, interpret and report x-ray imaging results, make treatment recommendations based on x-ray results and ensure the patient is comfortable and protected from radiation.

Some skills associated with an x-ray technician include; analytical skills to be able to interpret results and strong communication skills, both verbal and written. They also require organizational, time management, and mechanical skills. They should be willing to spend long periods of time on their feet, perform heavy lifting equipment, and be frequently exposed to radiation. They might also work long hours, with evenings and weekends sometimes required.

A minimum of an associate's degree is required and, in most cases, a bachelor's degree. They earn an average salary of $57,450 per year. Some certifications for this job might include; The American Registry of Radiologist's Technicians, Registered Radiology Assistant, Radiologic Technologists Mammography Certification, and Therapeutic Radiologic Technology Certification.

An ultrasound technologist performs diagnostic sonographic examinations using ultrasonic equipment as directed by physicians. This is to locate, evaluate, and record critical functional, pathological, and anatomical data. He/She schedules and coordinates tests, records test results and maintains operational logs. He/She calibrates and maintains equipment and orders supplies when needed. Furthermore, he/she may explain procedures to patients to aid cooperation and optimum test results. Likewise, he/she prepares patients for physicians and assists during examinations. Also, he/she determines the quality of the images that have been taken. Additionally, he/she helps physicians in interpreting the images or diagnosis of medical problems.

Employers commonly require an associate's or bachelor's degree or certificate program from related areas like medical sonography or ultrasound technology. Employers may require registration with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). Applicants must have relevant work experience. Ultrasound technologists make an average salary of $71,804 per year. This varies between $53,000 and $98,000.

Sonographers are medical professionals who specialize in using high-frequency ultrasound equipment to view images of internal organs. They are also responsible for preparing patients by explaining the procedure to them, ensuring they are comfortable, and giving them instructions to enable them to get the best view of the internal organs. The images obtained assists the physician in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

A sonographer may choose to specialize in a particular field such as abdominal, OBGYN, neuro, cardiac, ophthalmologic, or vascular. A successful sonographer must possess excellent technical skills combined with attention to detail, communication skills, and organizational skills.

Sonographers have a work schedule of 40 hours a week from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The job is generally demanding, forcing some sonographers to work nights, weekends, and public holidays to meet patients' demands.