Who are Diagnostic Medical Sonographers?
A diagnostic medical sonographer, commonly known as a sonographer, uses imaging tools and soundwaves to form images of so many parts of the body, known as ultrasounds. Sonographic images are acquired and analyzed by them. Many medical disorders are diagnosed and treated with the help of these photographs.
Ultrasound is generally the first imaging test performed when a disease is diagnosed because it is a noninvasive approach to visualizing inside organs. As a result, diagnostic medical sonographers play a critical role in performing and interpreting initial imaging tests that can assist narrow down a patient’s diagnosis and get them the care they need promptly.
Sonographer follows a strict code of medical ethics at all times and is self-motivated to improve their expertise and knowledge of the area, diseases, and new techniques as they emerge. A sonographer is also in charge of the sonographic laboratory’s daily operations, patient scheduling, equipment maintenance, equipment failure reporting, and quality assurance.
Sonographer Job description
Doctors, nurses, and patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly, work with diagnostic medical sonographers. A diagnostic medical sonographer’s typical job duties, roles, and responsibilities include:
- Plan out your regular work routine.
- The abdomen, breasts, female reproductive system, prostate, heart, and blood arteries should all be examined.
- Obtain and keep a record of the patient’s medical history.
- Anatomical, pathological, and physiological data should be recorded and interpreted by a physician.
- Preparation of preliminary reports
- Use sonographic equipment to perform diagnostic operations.
- Analyze sonograms and inform the physician of your findings.
- Keep ultrasound equipment and supplies in good working order.
- Respond to the patient’s concerns and questions.
- Place patients in the proper position for the procedure.
- During examinations, make clinical assessments.
- If more testing is required, place an order.
- Organize and manage imaging divisions.
- Apply a gel to the area of the patient’s body where the waves must go.
Ultrasound Sonographer Skills and Qualifications
A solid understanding of human physiology and medical ideas is required of an Ultrasound Sonographer. They must also be competent communicators with strong interpersonal skills and a strong work ethic. A successful Ultrasound Sonographer will normally possess the following abilities and qualifications:
- Programs (CAAHEP) preferred
- A formal Diagnostic Medical Sonography or Cardiovascular Technology program graduate
- Ability to operate sonographic equipment efficiently
- Ability to use independent judgment to obtain the best diagnostic sonographic information in each examination
- Institutionally defined experience
- Ability to adhere to departmental policies and procedures
- Ability to interpret sonograms in order to obtain accurate diagnostic data
- A program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education
- Ability to integrate diagnostic sonograms, laboratory results, patient history, and medical records into sonographic examinations and adapt them as needed
- Ability to integrate diagnostic sonograms, laboratory results, patient history, and medical records into sonographic examinations and adapt them as needed
- Ability to work quickly and effectively in a variety of scenarios, including emergencies
- Ability to evaluate, synthesize, and communicate diagnostic information to the attending physician
Sonographer’s Salary in Texas
The sonographer job is one of the most in-demand jobs in the healthcare industry and sonographers typically have an associate or bachelor’s degree in medical sonography or a related field. Salary ranges of sonographers can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession.
How Much Do Sonographers Make in Texas? It is estimated that the annual average salary of a Sonographer in Texas is $71,550.
The average hourly wage for a Sonographer in Texas is $34.40, which amounts to about $71,550 per year. The lowest 20% makes about $52,720 annually, while the highest 20% makes about $95,420 per year.