The equipment uses high frequency sound waves to produce these images. Ultrasound machines are used to diagnose and treat various health problems. In order to enter into this field, you will have to obtain the right formal training and certification.
Education
Some of the formal education that you will need to work as an ultrasound tech includes acquiring an associate's degree, which takes two years to obtain. Or you can choose to stay in school for four years to get a bachelor's degree. It isn't too common, but there have been instances where individuals became technicians with just a high school diploma. There are training programs that can be found within vocational schools, universities, tech schools, hospitals and within the military. Some of the courses that you will have to study for include anatomy, physiology, basic physics, patient care and medical ethics. As a technician, it is wise to stay abreast of the changes in the ultrasound field.
Employment
More than 50 percent of the technicians that work in this field are employed at hospitals. Others out there are employed at physicians' offices, medical labs and diagnostic centers. Some even work at mobile imaging centers. A lot of ultrasound techs are stationed within clinics and hospitals where their patients come to them for services. Some work on temp basis at clinics and hospitals.
Technicians are known to specialize in a certain areas, like vascular, nerves heart, breast, obstetric and gynecologic. Some even have a focus on the eyes.
