ULTRASOUND TECHNOLOGISTS (TECHNICAL OCCUPATIONS IN MEDICINE) California Occupational Guide Number 2002-E (part) Interest Area: Emerging Occupations 1995
THE JOB 
Ultrasound Technologists review patients' medical records and explain the testing procedure to the patients. Then the Technologists prepare them for the exam by positioning and applying gels to the part of the body to be tested. They operate an ultrasound emitting device over the part of body being examined while simultaneously watching a video screen on which a pattern is being produced. The Technologist produces a visual image from the pattern and records the image on film.
COMPENSATION
Wage information for this occupation is sparse. However, a recent national survey reported a median annual salary of $21,741.
REQUIREMENTS
Skills
-- Interact with different kinds of patients and other health professionals
-- Follow technical instructions
-- Work precisely and accurately
-- Operate sensitive equipment
-- Must have knowledge of cardiovascular principles, instrumentation, and
vascular technology
Training/Requirements
-- High School graduate
-- Two years of College, preferably with courses in Physiology, Psychology,
and Electronics
-- Three certifications are available:
-- Diagnostic Medical Sonographer,
-- Registered Diagnostic Cardiac
-- Sonographer, and Registered Vascular Technologist
-- Several years experience in Diagnostic Ultrasound Technology preferred
OCCUPATIONAL CODES
DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, 4th Ed., Rev. 1): 078.364-010 OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) System: 329990
Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
(916) 262-2162
Home
Other Technical Occupations in Medcine