Sonography Student: Tips for Getting to Graduation Day

Sonography is a medical diagnostic field that has rapidly evolved since the 1980s with the invention of 3D ultrasound technology. It was in 1986 that the first 3D ultrasound images of a fetus were produced, revolutionizing the way physicians were able to monitor the wellbeing of the unborn.

Through the years, the use of sonography has been expanded to capture images of organs in the body. In the 1990s, the development of 4D or real time sonography further extended capabilities, including ultrasound-guided biopsies, or endoscopic ultrasounds.

Technological innovations in ultrasound have continued over the last 20 years, including the introduction of a variety of compact, handheld devices featuring telesonography apps and even virtual guidance programs for non-sonographers to perform ultrasounds in space.

Anyone who is attracted by the prospect of a career in sonography is likely amazed at the difference ultrasound has made in diagnostic medicine.

Breaking Into Sonography, and Beyond

If you're thinking a career in sonography might be the right career choice, you've probably already done some research and found that there are a couple of basic educational paths:

Obtain an associate's or bachelor's degree in the field. Or, for anyone already working as a healthcare professional, such as a nurse, respiratory therapist or radiologic technologist, it is possible to obtain certification as a sonographer by completing coursework in an area of specialization, such as vascular, abdominal, obstetrics/gynecology or echocardiography.

While you will have your choice of programs to enroll in, be sure that yours is accredited by a national accrediting agency.

Be aware that it typically takes two years to obtain a sonography certificate. More advanced degrees or specializations could take up to four years. In general, sonographers acquire an associate's degree in applied science and specialize in diagnostic medical sonography.

You may also look into accelerated programs, where you could finish your degree in as little as 1.5 years. These schools feature year-round schedules, allowing them to help students graduate sooner.

Obtaining Other Skills and Experience

Sonographers work closely with patients. It's important to be a fairly empathetic person with good communication skills and a calm manner. Sometimes, college coursework can help individuals who may be a bit deficient in communication skills improve in this area. Collaborating with other students in labs and during classroom exercises and clinicals may also help.

If the idea of having to communicate possible bad news to patients is worrying to you, keep in mind that while you will be working with patients, you won't be the one having to deliver bad news. You will conduct the ultrasound procedures, but someone else will interpret them and discuss the results with the patient.

Speaking of clinicals, hands-on training will be an important part of your training. It will be during these periods that you'll have an opportunity to see how well you like real-world work with patients.

Once you complete your education, you will need to look into certification, through either the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

Getting to Graduation Day

If you've decided sonography is the right field for you, and you're ready to enroll in an associate's to obtain a degree and/or specialization leading to certification, there are a few things to do to ensure you make it to graduation day, including these:

• Before you enroll, get all the bases covered. These include financial aid for your education. Also, your family and friends. Enlist them for support in helping with the kids, cooking, and chauffeur duties -- whatever it takes so you can be sure to have the time you need for study and attending class.
• Don't skip classes or ask to turn assignments in late unless you have a real emergency. Your instructors will respect you more and make leeway for you if a real emergency comes up -- more so than if you're continually asking for mercy for late assignments or skipping exams because you're not prepared.
• Whether you're working for a degree online or in a classroom, make sure you have good study habits. Take the time you need to be well organized so you master the material. Attend clinicals or labs as required.
• Take a deep breath during stressful times and forge ahead. Yes, it's bound to get a little bumpy at times as you try to master new material and work to make your life and school commitments mesh, but you can do it if you can remember to relax and just be steady.

Do you think sonography is the right path for you? If you want to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, ECPI University offers this degree at an accelerated rate. For more information about this exciting program, connect with a knowledgeable admissions counselor today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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Gainful Employment Information – Sonography - Associate’s

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