Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

Produce ultrasonic recordings of internal organs for use by physicians.

Job Task

• 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, and quality assurance records (e.g., pathology, biopsy, 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.
• Perform medical procedures such as administering oxygen, inserting and removing airways, taking vital signs, and giving emergency treatment such as first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• Load and unload film cassettes used to record images from procedures.

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