Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Job Description
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Job Profile and Description
The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, also called the ultrasound technologist, uses sound waves or technically known as sonography or ultrasonography as the imaging technology for the diagnosis and assessment of certain medical conditions. The position is closely associated with obstetrics when using ultrasound imaging to reveal live images of a pregnant woman’s baby in her womb. But the same technology is used in the diagnosis of other medical conditions using the technology to be videotaped, photographed and transmitted for interpretation by a trained physician.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide sonogram with written summary of technical results to attending doctors for medical diagnosis.
- Analyze images, looking for variances between healthy and pathological areas for inclusion in the result reports to doctors.
- Operate ultrasound equipment to record images of the motion, shape and composition of organs, tissues and fluid accumulations.
- Ensure that ultrasound image produced is satisfactory for diagnostic purposes, making equipment adjustments as required.
- Prepare patient for exam by explaining ultrasound procedure, transferring them to the testing table, scrubbing skin surface and applying gel, prior to operating equipment.
- Maintain patient comfort throughout ultrasound examinations
- Maintain patient records that include sonographs and interpretations.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Skills and Specifications
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English
- Excellent social and interpersonal skills needed in dealing with patients and hospital staff physicians and other health care professionals.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Education and Qualifications
- A Registered nurse with a post graduate training or degree is basic.
- 3-5 years experience in general nursing care of mental cases is an advantage,
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary
The median annual salary of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers was $61,980 in 2008. The middle 50% earned between $52,570 and $73,680 annually. The lowest 10% earned about $43,600, while the highest 10% earned around $84,000. Median annual salary was $62,340 in offices of physicians and $61,900 in general medical and surgical hospitals.