Sonographer

A diagnostic medical sonographer uses high-frequency sound waves from ultrasound equipment to generate an image for assessing and diagnosing various medical conditions. Sonographers explain the procedure to the patient, help the patient get into the position that is most suitable for providing he best view, and then preform and exam.  They may also spread a special gel on to the skin to help in the transmission of the sound waves. Diagnostic medical sonographers, also called ultra sonographers, operate the equipment that collects images that may be used for interpretation and diagnostic by physicians.  Sonographers may specialize in obstetrics gynecology, abdominal sonography, neuron sonography, ophthalmologic, and other areas. Most sonographers work at most hospitals. A sonographer may be asked to work nights or weekends. The most familiar procedures diagnostic medical sonographers do are x-rays and magnetic resonance imaging.

The main duties of a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer include: – Directing high frequency sound waves into areas of the patient’s body – Operating equipment, which collects reflected echoes – Taking measurements, calculating values, and analyzing results – Supplying relevant images to the physician for diagnosis

The median annual wage of diagnostic medical sonographers was $61,980 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent of sonographers earned wages between $52,570 and $73,680 a year. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $43,600, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $83,950. Median annual wages of diagnostic medical sonographers in May 2008 were $62,340 in offices of physicians and $61,870 in general medical and surgical hospitals.