Did you know that imaging procedures are one of the most common procedures in all of medicine?
If you love working in healthcare, you might think about becoming an ultrasound technician.
Ultrasound technicians assist with medical procedures and people’s health on a regular basis. But what is an ultrasound technician, and how do you become one?
Keep reading to learn more about becoming an ultrasound technician and what the job entails.
1. Find Out What Education You Need
While a 2-year degree from an accredited institution is the minimum requirement, you may be able to complete your training in as little as a year if you attend a school that offers an accelerated program.
Once you have completed your degree, you will be eligible to take an ultrasound technician certification exam.
If you are also struggling to find ultrasound registry courses online, worry not, for these registry review ultrasound courses will provide you with everything you need.
2. Determine What Type of Ultrasound Technician You Want to Be
There are many different types of ultrasound technicians, and each one has its own unique set of skills and responsibilities. To become an ultrasound technician, you will need to first determine what type of technician you want to be.
Do you want to work in a hospital setting, or would you prefer to work in a private clinic?
Once you have decided on the setting you would like to work in, you can begin to look for training programs that will help you learn the skills you need to be successful in your chosen career.
3. Gain Firsthand Experience
You can do this by volunteering at a hospital or clinic that offers ultrasound services. This will give you a chance to see how the machines work and how the technicians operate them.
You’ll also be able to learn about the different types of ultrasound procedures and how to prepare patients for them.
This will be very beneficial for you since you’ll get a feel for what it’s like to work in the medical field and how to interact with patients.
4. Get Licensed in Your State
Assuming one has completed the educational and training requirements to become an ultrasound technician, the final step to getting licensed in your state is to pass an ultrasonography exam administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
The ARDMS offers two types of examinations, the Sonographic Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) Exam, and the Abdomen (AB) Exam.
Candidates must pass both examinations to earn the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) credential. After passing the exams and becoming credentialed, ultrasound technicians can apply for state licensure.
Get Your Career Started Today
If you’re interested in becoming an ultrasound technician, there are a few things you need to do.
For starters, you’ll need to find out what education you need, since there are different types of ultrasound technicians. Then, you’ll need to gain experience in the field and you’ll need to get a license in your state.
So, what are you waiting for? Become an ultrasound technician as soon as possible!
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