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Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
If you want to work in healthcare industry and also have interest in using latest technology machines in the process then diagnostic medical sonographer may fit your career choice. The diagnostic medical sonographer provides patient services using medical ultrasound (high-frequency sound waves that produce images of internal structures). Working under the supervision of a physician responsible for the use and interpretation of ultrasound procedures, the sonographer helps gather sonographic data to diagnose a variety of conditions and diseases, as well as monitor fetal development. The sonographer provides patient services in a variety of medical settings in which the physician is responsible for the use and interpretation of ultrasound procedures.
Diagnostic medical sonographers usually specialize in one or more of the seven specialties offered which include obstetrics and gynecology; breast; abdomen; echocardiography; vascular technology; ophthalmology; and, neurosonology.
Role of Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
- Use and interpretation of ultrasound procedures;
- Assist physicians in gathering sonographic data;
- The diagnostic medical sonographer is able to obtain, review, and integrate pertinent patient history and supporting clinical data to facilitate optimum diagnostic results.
- Perform appropriate procedures and record anatomical, pathological, and/or physiological data for interpretation by a physician;
- Record and process sonographic data and other pertinent observations made during the procedure for presentation to the interpreting physician;
- Exercise discretion and judgment in the performance of sonographic services;
- Provide patient education related to medical ultrasound; and promote principles of good health.
Academic Qualification
After completing higher secondary education with biology as main subject, students can seek admission in bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography programs.
Skills required to be Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Eye for detail: Diagnostic medical sonographers must follow precise instructions to obtain the images needed to diagnose and treat the patient. They also must pay attention to the screen while scanning a patient's body because the cues that contrast healthy areas with unhealthy ones may be subtle.
Hand-eye coordination: To get quality images, diagnostic medical sonographers must be able to move equipment on the patient’s body in response to what they see on the screen.
Interpersonal skills: Diagnostic medical sonographers must work closely with patients. Sometimes patients are in extreme pain or mental stress, and the sonographer must get cooperation from the patient to create usable images.
Stamina: Diagnostic medical sonographers work on their feet for long periods and must be able to lift and move patients who need assistance.
Technical skills: Diagnostic medical sonographers must understand how to operate complex machinery and computerized instruments.
Service Orientation: Actively looking for ways to help people.
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