An ultrasound technician is a healthcare worker who specializes in the use of specialized ultrasound equipment to make images or scan inside body structures. Sonographers are another name for them. They play an important role in diagnostic medicine by supporting clinicians in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of medical disorders. They also collaborate with doctors, radiologists, and other healthcare experts to help diagnose and treat medical issues. A certified ultrasound technician must have a thorough understanding of human anatomy and be skilled in the use of ultrasound machines or equipment.
We will look at who an ultrasound technician is, a full job description of an ultrasound technician, the average compensation of an ultrasound technician, and how to become an ultrasound technician in this post.
Who Is An Ultrasound Technician?
A medical photographer who specializes in the use of ultrasonic equipment or technologies to record the inside image of the human body is also known as an ultrasound technician. An ultrasound technician’s major role is to prepare patients to go under ultrasound equipment, explain the process, and ensure the patient is comfortable and safe. An ultrasound technician can specialize in a variety of fields, such as obstetric and gynecologic sonography, cardiac sonography, vascular sonography, or abdominal sonography. Ultrasound technologists are employed in hospitals, clinics, diagnostic imaging centers, and other healthcare facilities.
They are also responsible for assessing and interpreting picture results, looking for irregularities or signs of diseases or disorders. They report their findings to the physicians or healthcare team, who utilize the data to make diagnoses and treat patients. A Bachelor’s Degree in Radiography or Radiography and Radiation Science from any respectable and recognized University is required to become an Ultrasound Technician or Sonographer in Nigeria.
Job Descriptions Of An Ultrasound Technician
- Prepare patients for ultrasound use, explain the procedure, and make sure they are comfortable and safe.
- Set up and calibrate the ultrasound machines or equipment to ensure it is in good working order and ready for usage.
- To assure technical correctness and quality, as well as to discover abnormalities, interpret and analyze ultrasound results or images.
- Collaborate and work closely with other specialists such as radiologists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to provide the required knowledge on how to assist patients.
- Maintain good care of the ultrasound room, equipment, and machines, and ensure that everything is sterilized.
- Maintain patient records, medical ultrasonography history, and any other administrative reports that can aid in understanding patients and their medical histories.
- Follow processes or protocols strictly to safeguard patients and oneself from any potential dangers that may occur during or after ultrasonography. Provide patients the appropriate information to assist them better prepare for their procedures.
Average Salary Of An Ultrasound Technician
An ultrasound technician’s typical income ranges from 149,000 NGN to 438,000 NGN, according to income Explorer.
How To Become An Ultrasound Technician
- Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Radiography or Radiography and Radiation Sciences
- Observe the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
- Become a member of the Association of Medical Ultrasound Practitioners of Nigeria (AMUPN)
- Advanced education such as Masters Education
- Continuous professional certification and learning