Diagnostic Medical Sonography: A Career Analysis

The healthcare practitioner and technicians field has a wide variety of careers to pursue in. Diagnostic medical sonography is a type of medical imaging that uses mobilizes high-frequency sound waves, otherwise known as ultrasound, to produce images of organs, tissues and blood flow. This occupation can also be referred to as an ultrasound technician/ technologist, vascular sonographer, sonography technician, echocardiographic technician, or a cardiovascular sonographer. All of these related career fields produce ultrasonic recordings of internal organs for use by physicians. The outlook on this career has an average annual growth of 4.26%. In 2012, this occupation employed approximately 4,700 people in California. It is assumed that there

In California, 2014, the average annual wage was $89,870 with most people making between $57,540 and $126,120. In 2015 the median wage in California was $91,014 annually or $43.75 hourly. The average monthly salary would amount to $4,870 given if one works 8-10 hours a day, 5 days a week. Benefits of this career generally include medical, dental, life, and vision insurance as well as vacation time, sick leave, and also retirement plans. In addition, some employers may pay for job-related training courses. Not only does this occupation offer health benefits, but it also includes job security and personal rewards. Very few industries in this generation have the same positive outlook as medicine, with that being said diagnostic medical sonography jobs will increase by an estimated 18% over the next few years, possibly even more. As for personal rewards, sonographer technicians assist doctors diagnose patients and give expectant parents a first look at their child. According to surveys on this career the flexibility is average and the stress level is below

Individuals who work in this occupation often value personal relationships and also take consideration in the support and achievement of their jobs. Some important concepts they must know are active listening and learning, reading comprehension, social perceptiveness, speaking/ speech, critical thinking, monitoring and customer and personal service. Active listening and learning is important in understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making. Problem sensitivity is critical in deciphering which photographs and sonograms to incorporate and how to elucidate the differences between healthy and pathological areas. Social perceptiveness is the ability to be aware of patient's actions and observe and care for them throughout examinations to ensure safety and comfort. Speaking and speech is necessary in order to communicate with others to convey information effectively. Critical thinking involves logical reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to various problems. Sonographers must be able to operate ultrasound equipment to produce and record multiple images of the motion, shape and composition of blood, organs, tissues and bodily masses. Monitoring and coordination is imperative to select the most appropriate equipment settings and adjustment to patient positions to obtain the best sites and