A Step by Step Guide to Becoming an Ultrasound Technician
The other name for an ultrasound technician is a diagnostic medical sonographer. Ultrasound technicians are specialized in using high-frequency sound wave machines to scan and inspect the body’s internal organs. This way, they are able to interpret and help decipher any irregularities or ailments that may be ailing the human body. Keep reading here to discover the mandatory steps to be undertaken when looking to pursue the emergency medicine ultrasound course.
How about you sit down and evaluate the pros and cons of pursuing this career path before enrolling in an emergency medicine ultrasound course that is often accelerated. Of course, it would do you best if you heard from the horse’s mouth on the requirements of an ultrasound tech, how a typical day is at the work environment, their salary as well as the course work covered in the emergency medicine ultrasound course that you are planning to enroll in.
Take note of the fact that this course can take between a year and up to four years to graduate and become a fully-fledged and competent ultrasound tech. And then there are the exams that must be undertaken and passed in order to be a fully registered sonographer. This explains the rising popularity and high demand for the emergency medicine ultrasound course. Rest assured the emergency medicine ultrasound course allows you complete your coursework and exams earlier than usual seeing as it is that it is an accelerated program.
Having said that, it is important to note that you must have completed a certain education level for you to get registered and certified as a sonographer. The best news here is that there are so many accredited and recognized institutions offering both the traditional bachelors and associate degrees in ultrasound studies as well as the emergency medicine ultrasound course that is accelerated.
After completing your studies, it is mandatory that you get certification from an accredited professional organization. An example of these professional organizations include the ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography) and the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists). Again, there will be exams that you will need to take that are related to your field of specialization if you are to get the certification. And this is where you become a registered diagnostic medical sonographer once you have passed the exams.
You can always look for internship opportunities to hone your skills or dive right into the job market. Another important step into this highly lucrative career opportunity is to always ensure you keep your certifications active. The certifications issued by American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) are valid for up to 10 years upon which you will be expected to complete 30 hours of additional training to allow for renewal.