Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

·  Produce ultrasonic recordings of internal organs for use by physicians.

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Occupational Tasks

·  Decide which images to include, looking for differences between healthy and pathological areas.
· Observe screen during scan to ensure that image produced is satisfactory for diagnostic purposes, making adjustments to equipment as required.
· Observe and care for patients throughout examinations to ensure their safety and comfort.
· Provide sonogram and oral or written summary of technical findings to physician for use in medical diagnosis.
· Operate ultrasound equipment to produce and record images of the motion, shape and composition of blood, organs, tissues and bodily masses such as fluid accumulations.
· Select appropriate equipment settings and adjust patient positions to obtain the best sites and angles.
· Determine whether scope of exam should be extended, based on findings.
· Process and code film from procedures and complete appropriate documentation.
· Obtain and record accurate patient history, including prior test results and information from physical examinations.
· Prepare patient for exam by explaining procedure, transferring them to ultrasound table, scrubbing skin and applying gel, and positioning them properly.
· Record and store suitable images, using camera unit connected to the ultrasound equipment.
· Coordinate work with physicians and other health care team members, including providing assistance during invasive procedures.
· Maintain records that include patient information, sonographs and interpretations, files of correspondence, publications and regulations, or quality assurance records such as pathology, biopsy, or post-operative reports.
· Perform legal and ethical duties including preparing safety and accident reports, obtaining written consent from patient to perform invasive procedures, and reporting symptoms of abuse and neglect.
· Supervise and train students and other medical sonographers.
· Maintain stock and supplies, preparing supplies for special examinations and ordering supplies when necessary.
· Clean, check and maintain sonographic equipment, submitting maintenance requests or performing minor repairs as necessary.
· Perform clerical duties such as scheduling exams and special procedures, keeping records and archiving computerized images.

Educational Requirements:

·  Associate degree

Occupational Skill Set

Skill	Relevance
·  Active Listening	85%
·  Social Perceptiveness	82%
·  Speaking	82%
·  Reading Comprehension	82%
·  Critical Thinking	74%
·  Learning Strategies	73%
·  Active Learning	73%
·  Instructing	70%
·  Coordination	69%
·  Writing	66%