Diagnostic Medical Sonography

What do you see as the most important role of the diagnostic medical sonographer?

The diagnostic medical sonographer plays a vital role in revealing the patient's state of health and well-being to the examining physician. Diagnostic medical sonography helps clarify the patient's state of physical health to the physician through the use of technologically-generated images. He or she must also work to create a comfortable environment for the patient, who may feel frightened and confused. Sonographers must explain how the equipment works to the patient in layperson's terms, and also explain the use sonography itself. Sonography is the use of sound waves to create an image to help in the diagnosis of a medical condition or to affirm the patient's state of health. If the patient is pregnant, he or she may be particularly apprehensive and the sonographer should keep this in mind.

Sonographers must be very detail-oriented when taking the patient's medical history and records, as well as when they are inspecting and maintaining the equipment. They have a great deal of responsibility for selecting the images during the scan that provide the most comprehensive picture for diagnostic purposes, as well as recording their own preliminary findings.

Why did you apply to this health program?

I have worked three years as a 401K plan analyst. I enjoy making the complex financial services industry comprehensible to clients, but I am seeking a job that is more meaningful and hands-on that still makes use of detail-oriented personality. The field of medical sonography is fascinating and likely to be more and more important in the future because of its ability to quickly provide a portrait of a patient's state of well-being. Working in the field will allow me to be in close contact with patients and to give them meaningful comfort, advice, and care during diagnostic procedures.