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Say “ultrasound” and most people think of babies. Ultrasound technicians do a lot more, though, than just show sonograms of fetuses to expectant parents. In fact, it is a profession boasting many opportunities and will likely have even more in the near future.
Ultrasound is high-frequency sound waves, higher than the human ear can detect. It is used in the medical field to see images of organs and fetuses. These sound waves create a sonogram, or image, that doctors can use to observe and diagnose problems in organs and observe the growth, determine gender and detect abnormalities in fetuses.
9 Reasons to Become an Ultrasound Technician
1. Ultrasound technician programs are relatively short.
Programs usually last between two and four years. Some one-year programs exist, but if you are not yet in the medical field, you should take a longer, more in-depth program. Since equipment and procedures change rapidly in this field, you will probably continue learning throughout your career.
2. You can work in the medical field but avoid some of the typical medical tasks.
If you are interested in working in the medical field but you’re not comfortable dealing with blood, performing surgeries, being around contagious illnesses or other aspects that accompany many medical professions, becoming an ultrasound technician may be a good fit for you. In this position, you explain the procedure to the patient, assist him or her in being in the right position for the ultrasound, put gel on the area that will receive the ultrasound and run the equipment. You will also process ultrasound films and record notes about the procedure.
3. Ultrasound techs make great pay.
The average salary for an ultrasound technician was $63,010 in 2009 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Entry-level wage is also very good for this occupation. Typically, they make between $40,000 and $50,000 annually.
4. Ultrasounds are Safe.
Compared to other body-imaging instruments such as X-ray and computed tomography (CT scan) machinery, ultrasound equipment is considered safe. Since ultrasounds use sound waves, rather than radiation to create imaging, ultrasound technicians are not exposed to the same dangers as X-ray and CT technicians. During X-ray and CT scans the technician must leave the room to avoid a buildup of radiation with each procedure they administer. As an ultrasound technician, you can stay in the same room as the patient during the procedure.
5. Ultrasound technicians work closely with people.
They get to interact with the patients as well as staff and doctors. Some patients may be nervous or worried and need consoling. Others may be chatty and want to talk. Doctors need clear information about the results. As an ultrasound tech, you will get the opportunity to help in all these instances.
6. You can get your training in a variety of sources.
Employers look for applicants who have graduated from vocational schools, colleges, universities and hospital training programs. Those who graduate from accredited schools or programs have the best success at finding work.
7. Many advancement opportunities exist in this field.
The more skills you obtain, the more in demand you will be. Also, those who obtain leadership skills in addition to practical experience can move into managerial and supervisory positions.
8. Growing demand.
Within the next ten years, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that the demand for ultrasound technicians will increase 18 percent, which is faster than usual. This is a great profession to join because of the availability of jobs now and in the future.
9. Many applications.
Doctors use sonograms to learn about many parts of the body. It’s used for abdominal, cardiovascular, gynecologic, mammographic, obstetric and ophthalmic purposes. The scope of use is ever increasing as well because it’s a noninvasive and safe way for doctors to observe and make diagnoses about the inner workings of the body.
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