Medical Sonographer Research Paper

Ultrasound technicians, or sonographers, generate diagnostic images for physicians through the use of high-pitched sound waves. These ultrasonic frequencies are affected by the density of the tissues they 're travelling through, and computer processors inside the ultrasound unit interpret the echoes to create a visual image of the tissues. Sonography is one of the highest-paid professions open to those without a bachelor 's degree.
In its May 2011 Occupational Employment Statistics, the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides a median income of $31.25 per hour, or $65,210 per year, for diagnostic medical sonographers. A median is the point at which half earn more and half earn less. The 25th percentile of sonographers earned up to $25.88 per
The overall pay scale was broad, though wages were generous even at the lowest levels. The lowest-earning 10 percent of sonographers were paid $44,950 or less, with the median at $65,210 per year and the top 10 percent earning $90,640 or more. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists reported similar numbers in its 2010 salary survey, finding an average salary of $68,821 and a median of $66,593 per year among respondents.
Sonography Training
There are two main paths to qualification as a sonographer. One is a two-year associate degree program through a community college, vocational school, hospital or other facility. The first year of the program consists primarily of classwork, including basic science and communications courses, the theory of ultrasound technology, human anatomy, medical terminology and related subjects. The second year is spent primarily in clinical settings, gaining hands-on experience. The second path is a streamlined one-year certificate program, for professionals with degrees in a related field. Graduates are eligible for certification through bodies such as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists or the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical