Step-by-Step to Becoming an Ultrasound Technician
- Earn a high school or GED diploma.
- Earn an associate in sonography degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
- Get licensed if it is state mandated.
- Take an ultrasound technician certification exam through a professional organization.
Is ultrasound technician hard?
It's a job that requires technical savvy, detailed knowledge of human anatomy, and the interpersonal skills necessary to make a patient feel at ease during the procedure. Being an ultrasound technician may seem like a daunting job, but it only takes a minimum of two years to complete the schooling necessary.
Is a sonographer the same as an ultrasound tech?
Ultrasound technicians, sonographers, and ultrasound technologists are interchangeable terms used to describe a highly specialized and trained allied health professional. Often, an ultrasound technologist is associated with performing pregnancy ultrasounds, though career opportunities extend beyond obstetrics.
Is sonography a good career?
The sonography profession is challenging, rewarding, and empowers you to make a difference in the lives of patients. If you are a person who is looking for these facets in your career, then sonography may be the right career for you.
How many questions are on the breast ARDMS exam?
170QUESTION FORMAT & DURATION The Breast (BR) examination is three hours, including a five-minute survey, and contains approximately 170 multiple-choice questions, which include hotspot questions.
Which ultrasound tech makes the most?
The Highest-paying Specialties for an Ultrasound Technician:Neuro (brain) sonography: $112,000.Pediatric cardiac sonography: $80,000.Cardiac sonography: $79,000.Vascular sonography: $68,000.Ob/gyn sonography: $68,000.
Do sonographers do math?
Because of the nature of these courses, solid math and science skills are critical for program success. Algebra is also used in the actual process of sonography. For example, you'll need to use math to determine the circumference of the abdomen before beginning an ultrasound of the stomach.
Is sonography school harder than nursing?
Education Requirements For example, you can become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in as little as 5 weeks. Yet, to become a Registered Nurse, you'll need to attend a two-year Associate program. Due to these requirements, a sonography program might be a bit more challenging than a CNA program.
What are three disadvantages of being an ultrasound technician?
Cons of Being an Ultrasound TechnicianTough Patients. Like any other medical position, there is a high risk of dealing with difficult patients and diseases daily. ... Emotionally Draining at Times. ... Long Time Standing. ... Need Certification. ... May Only Grow so Far. ... May Be Last Position in Hospital. ... Long Days. ... Over Time and Odd Hours.More items...
What are the risks of being a sonographer?
Sonographers may work in hybrid suites designed specifically to conduct TEEFP diagnostics for heart defects, implants, and repairs, further increasing the possibility of radiation exposure. Radiation exposure can increase the risk for cataracts, leukemia and other forms of cancer.
Is the ARDMS exam hard?
The ARDMS certification is widely sought by sonograpy specialists and is even required by some institutions as a requisite for employment. The certification tests are very difficult, with failure rates of 50 percent in some cases.
What happens if you fail the ARDMS?
ARDMS and click on “Clinical Verification Form” under “Application Center.” You must wait 60 days before you can retake the AB examination if you do not pass it however, you are welcome to reapply after 3 days.
What percentage do you need to pass ARDMS?
In addition, you will receive a scaled score, ranging from 300 to 700. A scaled score of 555 is required to pass all ARDMS examinations.
Is sonography better than ultrasound?
Sonography is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of internal body structures. Sonography is also known as ultrasound. After the X-ray test, ultrasound is the most used diagnostic imaging technique.
What is another name for ultrasound technician?
A diagnostic medical sonographer, also known simply as a sonographer, uses imaging equipment and soundwaves to form images of many parts of the body, known as ultrasounds. They are trained to acquire and analyze these sonographic images.
Is sonography an ultrasound?
Overview. Diagnostic ultrasound, also called sonography or diagnostic medical sonography, is an imaging method that uses sound waves to produce images of structures within your body.
How long does it take to become a sonographer?
The apprenticeship typically takes 36 months to complete.
Is it hard to become an ultrasound technician?
It depends. Ultrasound technicians must complete a postsecondary program, with many people opting for an associate in diagnostic medical sonography...
Do ultrasound technicians make good money?
Yes. As ultrasound technicians grow in their careers, they can increase their earnings. The BLS reports the lowest 10% of diagnostic medical sonogr...
How long is schooling for an ultrasound technician?
Students can complete either a one-year certificate program if they have previous healthcare experience or a two-year associate degree. Some colleg...