What does a Sonographer do?
A sonographer works alongside several physicians and is employed as a healthcare provider. They work as a medical imaging professional and provide requested images to doctors in order to facilitate their diagnosis and treatment of patients. The position of a sonographer is specialized as it utilizes knowledge of medical terminology as well as specialized imaging technology.
Education for the position can vary greatly by state. Many colleges offer training through two-year associate degree courses, and certification is available through accredited intuitions. A sonographer works directly with patients, so a professional demeanor and interpersonal skills are essential. Additionally, they correspond with physicians to ensure the ideal treatment for patients, so an advanced understanding of human anatomy and medical terminology is required. Employees who excel in the position tend to be passionate about the field and are highly organized.
- Conduct phone meetings with physicians throughout the medical office to answer questions or attain detailed relating to ordered sonographic images
- Prepare ultrasound equipment and exam room ensuring proper sterilization and safety procedures are followed
- Review the patient's medical chart prior to their appointment and have a clear understanding of the images required
- Use positioning tools and safety equipment properly to ensure patient safety and comfort throughout the imaging
- Attend continuing education courses and work to advance personal knowledge and experience within the field
- Use ethical judgment and critical thinking skills to perform diagnostic imaging safely
- Review images before sending to the physician to ensure a clear image of the area requested
- Use ethical judgment and critical thinking skills to perform diagnostic imaging safely
- Depending upon the state, a state-issued license may be required
- Proficiency with computer software commonly used for documentation and sonographic report presentation
- Experience working in a medical office alongside specialized physicians
- Demonstrated knowledge and adherence to HIPAA legislation and other patient privacy laws
- Experience working with sensitive and personal patient records and information
- Physical endurance and the ability to work primarily in a standing position
- Proficient in troubleshooting common software and hardware challenges in relation to the regular use of an ultrasound machine
- Accountability and attention to detail is essential when handling and documenting important medical information
- A friendly and professional demeanor is required when explaining procedures and processes to patients
Sonographer Salaries near Australia
Average Base Pay
Sonographer Career Path
Learn how to become a Sonographer, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Sonographer Insights
Los Alamitos Medical Center“Interventional Rads are nice and I enjoy working with them and their cath lab RNs.”
TridentCare“I love having a flexible work schedule along with the independence that comes with scheduling your day.”
Virtua Health“No reimbursement for required licenses or to attend conferences to further yourself in your career.”
The New York Fertility Center“Not the highest pay be great for starting Ultrasound career”
Portsmouth Regional Hospital“My coworkers are all amazing and I look forward to work”
Catawba Valley Health System“Best place to work and best people to work with”
St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center“Close to home and good schedule”
Vein Clinics of America“Awesome place to work and great pay”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of sonographers
Sonographers spend their average workday conducting ultrasound examinations. They often perform 10 to 12 ultrasound scans during their average shift. They then analyze these to diagnose conditions and share the information with doctors to determine an ideal course of treatment for the patient.
Yes, sonography is a good career and becoming a sonographer only requires two years of training. It's a well-paid job field with a very positive job outlook. Sonographers play an important role on a diagnostic team for helping patients, and the position is usually very rewarding.
Sonographers are very well paid, with an average salary for a sonographer in the U.S. of $73 per year. Additionally, this career often offers exceptional benefits including medical, dental, and life insurance, retirement plans, and paid time for vacation and sick leave.
Like many jobs, working as a sonographer can be difficult. They spend most of the workday on their feet conducting ultrasounds. Their schedule might be erratic, including nights and weekend shifts. Also, a sonographer might have to deal with stressed or anxious patients.
