What Is An Obstetric Ultrasound Technician?

According to reports from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), ultrasound technician careers are expected to increase from now until 2018 by at least 20% of its current ultrasound tech population. This is definitely good news for high schools students who want a career in the healthcare industry. Even career shifters who are already in the medical industry benefit from this because there are courses that will allow them to study for a shorter period of time as compared with high schools graduates or career shifters from a different field.

If you are one of them, one thing you should know is becoming a specialized ultrasound technologist is a far better option than a general sonorapher. For one, pay rate is higher and you can easily gain employment in well-known hospitals.

One such branch of sonography is obstetric ultrasound technician, also known as prenatal technician. A common misconception of those who intend to work as one is that they will be handling babies as well. In some respects, they are correct because prenatal techs monitor a fetus' growth and development. However, more than the baby, technicians work directly with expectant mothers.

How to Become an Obstetric Ultrasound Technician

Completion of an ultrasound technician course in an accredited school is your first step into this career choice. This means you have to complete at least two years of ultrasound training program, or, if you finished and received certification in any allied medical fields, you can opt for the one-year fast track program.

Working Atmosphere

After completing your training, you are now ready to join the workforce since this job does not require any certifications or licensures now. Most graduates choose to work for private obstetrician's clinics because of the regular clinic hours maintained by doctors. In addition, ultrasound schedules are pre-scheduled, thus, there are minimal chances of working late nights or experiencing emergency calls for patients.

Typically, you will be in close contact with women and expectant mothers who need medical aid when it comes to their female reproductive system. Most pregnant women you will encounter are excited about their pregnancies. However, there are those who might be suffering from ailments that could affect the health of the baby, thus, it is very important that you have great communication skills and compassion in order to make the patients feel at ease despite their medical condition.

The same thing is true for other women who go to obstetricians for treatment. They may be experiencing a tough time dealing with their condition; therefore, having the patience to explain the procedures to patients is one of the behaviors that you must possess if you want to be an ultrasound technician.

Truly, being in this field is a very rewarding experience considering the financial benefits it provides and the emotional return you get out of helping other people. If you think this is the career for you, then start scouting for a school that will lead you to the path of becoming an ultrasound technician.

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