Health Career: Ultrasound Technologist
Who are ultrasound technologists and what do they do?
Ultrasound technologists are also often called diagnostic medical sonographers. They perform ultrasound examinations to produce pictures of peoples' internal organs or of a pregnant woman's unborn baby. Ultrasound technologists prepare patients for the exam, including answering any questions they may have, and setting up the equipment to get the pictures they need. Technologists analyze the pictures with ultrasound experts to diagnose health conditions.
How do ultrasound technologists typically spend their workday?
As an ultrasound technologist, you will most likely work in a hospital or medical diagnostic center. You will perform ultrasound examinations to study a wide variety of conditions, including the physical health of an unborn baby and to screen certain areas of the body for cancer. During a typical work day, you may perform about six examinations. You will work closely with patients to be sure that they understand the procedure and to make sure they are positioned correctly for you to obtain the best image. You will also work with other health professionals in diagnosing health conditions and deciding upon appropriate treatments.
What does it take to be a good ultrasound technologist?
Do you want to help people learn about their health and to promote the health of unborn babies? Do you like working with your hands and operating technical equipment? Then you should consider becoming an ultrasound technologist. You should also have good communication skills and enjoy teaching and working with others. You must be patient, compassionate and interested in science.
What are some health-related jobs that are similar to that of an ultrasound technologist?
X-ray technologist, surgical technologist, EEG technician, EKG technician, cardiopulmonary technologist, respiratory therapist.
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