'When I grow up, I want to be an ultrasound technician!' probably isn’t the most common reply a kid would give when asked what he wants to do when he grows up. It’s not a job name, that rolls from one's tongue, either.
Alternative names for an ultrasound technician are diagnostic medical sonographer or just sonographer. While those names are probably as difficult to pronounce and remember, they do help us have a better understanding of what people in this line of work do for a living.
An ultrasound scan or a so-called sonogram is a non-invasive way of examining issues invisible from the outside. In the 21st century, we wouldn't be able to imagine the world of modern medicine without it.
When we hear this name mentioned, probably the first thing that comes to mind is an image of a person whose only job is to determine the sex of an unborn baby. However, ultrasound is essential in a very extensive spectrum of diagnostics and there's so much more to an ultrasound technician's job than we think.
So, what does an ultrasound technician do?
An ultrasound technician is a medical specialist whose task is to manage equipment that employs high-frequency sound waves to record pictures and videos of internal organs, blood vessels, and tissues.
They frequently focus on distinct branches of the profession within which they specialize. For instance, echocardiography, and breast ultrasound are just some examples of already mentioned distinct branches.
However, being an ultrasound technician isn't just about knowing how to work complicated devices. It also consists of firsthand contact with people who are your patients.
Therefore, ultrasound technicians should possess certain positive traits alongside their medical training to be great at their job. These traits are also known as 'soft skills.'
Sonographers have to communicate with people who come to them for examination, as well as handle situations that are far from ideal. Patients don't always want to cooperate with them, so it can make the job more demanding.
They always have to answer all of the questions their patients might have about the procedure, no matter how silly they sometimes are.
In order to get proper scans, the ultrasound technician will have to help the patient position their body. Whether it be by explaining to them how to do it or physically helping them adjust, it is their obligation.
They usually work long hours into the night, on weekends, and also on holidays. It isn't an easy job but it's considerably rewarding, though it isn’t for those who are faint of heart.
Most occupations require that those who work in them have certain abilities that allow them to do their jobs.