Wednesday, February 10, 2010

7:07 PM
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=vascularus
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Ultrasound
-Vascular

What
is
Vascular
Ultrasound?
What
are
some
common
uses
of
the
procedure?
How
should
I
prepare?
What
does
the
equipment
look
like?
How
does
the
procedure
work?
How
is
the
procedure
performed?
What
will
I
experience
during
the
procedure?
Who
interprets
the
results
and
how
do
I
get
them?
What
are
the
benefits
vs.
risks?
What
are
the
limitations
of
Vascular
Ultrasound?
Moreimages

What
is
Vascular
Ultrasound?

Ultrasound
imaging,
also
called
ultrasound
scanning
or
sonography,
involves
exposing
part
of
the
body
to
high-frequency
sound
waves
to
produce
pictures
of
the
inside
of
the
body.
Ultrasound
exams
do
not
use
ionizing
radiation
(as
used
in
x-rays).
Because
ultrasound
images
are
captured
in
real-time,
they
can
show
the
structure
and
movement
of
the
body's
internal
organs,
as
well
as
blood
flowing
through
blood
vessels.
Ultrasound
imaging
is
a
noninvasive
medical
test
that
helps
physicians
diagnose
and
treat
medical
conditions.
Vascular
ultrasound
provides
pictures
of
the
body's
veins
and
arteries.
A
Doppler
ultrasound
study
may
be
part
of
a
vascular
ultrasound
examination.
Doppler
ultrasound
is
a
special
ultrasound
technique
that
evaluates
blood
velocity
as
it
flows
through
a
blood
vessel,
including
the
body's
major
arteries
and
veins
in
the
abdomen,
arms,
legs
and
neck.

top
of
page

What
are
some
common
uses
of
the
procedure?
Sonography
is
a
useful
way
of
evaluating
the
body's
circulatory
system.
Vascular
ultrasound
is
performed
to:

help
monitor
the
blood
flow
to
organs
and
tissues
throughout
the
body.
locate
and
identify
blockages
(stenosis)
and
abnormalities
like
plaque
or
emboli
and
help
plan
for
their
effective
treatment.
detect
blood
clots
(deep
venous
thrombosis
(DVT)
in
the
legs
or
arms.
determine
whether
a
patient
is
a
good
candidate
for
a
procedure
such
as
angioplasty.
evaluate
the
success
of
procedures
that
graft
or
bypass
blood
vessels.
determine
if
there
is
an
enlarged
artery
(aneurysm).
determine
the
source
and
severity
of
varicose
veins.
Doppler
ultrasound
images
can
help
the
physician
to
see
and
evaluate:

blockages
to
blood
flow
(such
as
clots).
narrowing
of
vessels
(which
may
be
caused
by
plaque).
tumors
and
congenital
malformation.
top
of
page

How
should
I
prepare?

You
should
wear
comfortable,
loose-fitting
clothing
for
your
ultrasound
exam.
You
may
need
to
remove
all
clothing
and
jewelry
in
the
area
to
be
examined.
You
may
be
asked
to
wear
a
gown
during
the
procedure.
If
your
abdominal
vessels
are
being
examined,
unless
the
examination
is
performed
on
an
urgent
basis,
it
is
often
best
to
fast
before
the
procedure.

top
of
page

What
does
the
equipment
look
like?

Ultrasound
scanners
consist
of
a
console
containing
a
computer
and
electronics,
a
video
display
screen
and
a
transducer
that
is
used
to
scan
the
body
and
blood
vessels.
The
transducer
is
a
small
hand-held
device
that
resembles
a
microphone,
attached
to
the
scanner
by
a
cord.
The
transducer
sends
out
high
frequency
sound
waves
into
the
body
and
then
listens
for
the
returning
echoes
from
the
tissues
in
the
body.
The
principles
are
similar
to
sonar
used
by
boats
and
submarines.
The
ultrasound
image
is
immediately
visible
on
a
nearby
screen
that
looks
much
like
a
computer
or
television
monitor.
The
image
is
created
based
on
the
amplitude
(strength),
frequency
and
time
it
takes
for
the
sound
signal
to
return
from
the
patient
to
the
transducer.

top
of
page

How
does
the
procedure
work?

Ultrasound
imaging
is
based
on
the
same
principles
involved
in
the
sonar
used
by
bats,
ships
and
fishermen.
When
a
sound
wave
strikes
an
object,
it
bounces
back,
or
echoes.
By
measuring
these
echo
waves
it
is
possible
to
determine
how
far
away
the
object
is
and
its

Word Page 1
size,
shape,
and
consistency
(whether
the
object
is
solid,
filled
with
fluid,
or
both).
In
medicine,
ultrasound
is
used
to
detect
changes
in
appearance
of
organs,
tissues,
and
vessels
or
detect
abnormal
masses,
such
as
tumors.
In
an
ultrasound
examination,
a
transducer
both
sends
the
sound
waves
and
records
the
echoing
waves.
When
the
transducer
is
pressed
against
the
skin,
it
directs
small
pulses
of
inaudible,
high-frequency
sound
waves
into
the
body.
As
the
sound
waves
bounce
off
of
internal
organs,
fluids
and
tissues,
the
sensitive
microphone
in
the
transducer
records
tiny
changes
in
the
sound's
pitch
and
direction.
These
signature
waves
are
instantly
measured
and
displayed
by
a
computer,
which
in
turn
creates
a
real-time
picture
on
the
monitor.
One
or
more
frames
of
the
moving
pictures
are
typically
captured
as
still
images.

Doppler
ultrasound,
a
special
application
of
ultrasound,
measures
the
direction
and
speed
of
blood
cells
as
they
move
through
vessels.
The
movement
of
blood
cells
causes
a
change
in
pitch
of
the
reflected
sound
waves
(called
the
Doppler
effect).
A
computer
collects
and
processes
the
sounds
and
creates
graphs
or
color
pictures
that
represent
the
flow
of
blood
through
the
blood
vessels.

top
of
page

How
is
the
procedure
performed?

For
most
ultrasound
exams,
the
patient
is
positioned
lying
face-up
on
an
examination
table
that
can
be
tilted
or
moved.

A
clear
water-based
gel
is
applied
to
the
area
of
the
body
being
studied
to
help
the
transducer
make
secure
contact
with
the
body
and
eliminate
air
pockets
between
the
transducer
and
the
skin.
The
sonographer
(ultrasound
technologist)
or
radiologist
then
presses
the
transducer
firmly
against
the
skin
and
sweeps
it
over
the
area
of
interest.
Doppler
sonography
is
performed
using
the
same
transducer.

When
the
examination
is
complete,
the
patient
may
be
asked
to
dress
and
wait
while
the
ultrasound
images
are
reviewed.
However,
the
sonographer
or
radiologist
is
often
able
to
review
the
ultrasound
images
in
real-time
as
they
are
acquired
and
the
patient
can
be
released
immediately.
This
ultrasound
examination
is
usually
completed
within
30
minutes.
top
of
page

What
will
I
experience
during
and
after
the
procedure?

Most
ultrasound
examinations
are
painless,
fast
and
easy.
After
you
are
positioned
on
the
examination
table,
the
radiologist
or
sonographer
will
apply
some
warm
water-based
gel
on
your
skin
and
then
place
the
transducer
firmly
against
your
body,
moving
it
back
and
forth
over
the
area
of
interest
until
the
desired
images
are
captured.
There
is
usually
no
discomfort
from
pressure
as
the
transducer
is
pressed
against
the
area
being
examined.
If
scanning
is
performed
over
an
area
of
tenderness,
you
may
feel
pressure
or
minor
pain
from
the
transducer.
If
a
Doppler
ultrasound
study
is
performed,
you
may
actually
hear
pulse-like
sounds
that
change
in
pitch
as
the
blood
flow
is
monitored
and
measured.
Once
the
imaging
is
complete,
the
gel
will
be
wiped
off
your
skin.
After
an
ultrasound
exam,
you
should
be
able
to
resume
your
normal
activities
within
a
few
hours.

top
of
page

Who
interprets
the
results
and
how
do
I
get
them?
A
radiologist,
a
physician
specifically
trained
to
supervise
and
interpret
radiology
examinations,
will
analyze
the
images
and
send
a
signed
report
to
your
primary
care
physician
or
the
physician
who
referred
you
for
the
exam,
who
will
share
the
results
with
you.
In
some
cases
the
radiologist
may
discuss
results
with
you
at
the
conclusion
of
your
examination.
top
of
page

What
are
the
benefits
vs.
risks?
Benefits

Most
ultrasound
scanning
is
noninvasive
(no
needles
or
injections)
and
is
usually
painless.
Ultrasound
is
widely
available,
easy-to-use
and
less
expensive
than
other
imaging
methods.
Ultrasound
imaging
uses
no
ionizing
radiation.
Ultrasound
scanning
gives
a
clear
picture
of
soft
tissues
that
do
not
show
up
well
on
x-
ray
images.
Ultrasound
causes
no
health
problems
and
may
be
repeated
as
often
as
is
necessary.
Risks

For
standard
diagnostic
ultrasound
there
are
no
known
harmful
effects
on
humans.
top
of
page
What
are
the
limitations
of
Vascular
Ultrasound?

Vessels
deep
in
the
body
are
harder
to
see
than
superficial
vessels.
Specialized
equipment
or
other
tests
such
as
CT
or
MRI
may
be
necessary
to
properly
visualize
them.
Smaller
vessels
are
more
difficult
to
image
and
evaluate
than
larger
vessels.
Calcifications
that
occur
as
a
result
of
atherosclerosis
may
obstruct
the
ultrasound
beam.
Sometimes
ultrasound
cannot
differentiate
between
a
blood
vessel
that
is
closed
versus
one
that
is
nearly
closed.
Even
if
there
is
a
very
small
remaining
opening,
the
weak
blood
flow
produces
a
sometimes
undetectable
signal.
The
test
is
specialized
and
is
best
performed
by
a
technologist
and
physician
with
experience
and
interest
in
vascular
ultrasound
imaging.
Pasted
from
<http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=vascularus>

Word Page 2
Vascular Ultrasound
Neighborhood Care > Imaging and Radiology Centers >
On this page
What is a vascular ultrasound?
Who should have a vascular ultrasound?
How often should you have a vascular ultrasound?
How do you prepare for a vascular ultrasound?
What happens during the procedure?
What happens after the procedure?
What are the benefits of a vascular ultrasound?
What are the risks of a vascular ultrasound?
Where can I go for vascular ultrasound services?

What is a vascular ultrasound?

Vascular ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to examine
the blood vessels in order to
determine if there are areas of dilatation, narrowing or blockage. The vessels m
ost frequently examined are in the
neck, arms and legs, including both arteries and veins.
back to top

Who should have a vascular ultrasound?

Prime candidates include those with suspected circulatory system problems. Those
who have recently suffered a
stroke may have a vascular ultrasound exam to help determine the cause of the st
roke. It is also helpful for those
who may be under consideration for certain procedures such as angioplasty and fo
r those who have undergone
bypass surgeries to evaluate the success of those procedures.
back to top
How often should you have a vascular ultrasound?
As recommended by your doctor.
back to top
How do you prepare for a vascular ultrasound?
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your exam. In most cases
, no other preparation is required if
your neck arteries or peripheral veins and arteries are being studied. If your a
bdominal vessels are being studied,
you will need to fast 6-8 hours before the procedure.
back to top

What happens during the procedure?

You will lie on your back on an examining table that can tilt or move. The ultra
sound technician will spread a clear
gel on your skin and then press a transducer firmly against your body, moving it
back and forth across the area to be
studied until the desired images are captured. Depending on the type of study, t
he technician may ask you to hold
your breath, stop swallowing, or elevate or compress a different part of your bo
dy. Most exams take less than 30
minutes.
back to top
What happens after the procedure?
Physically, there should be absolutely no discomfort. The images may be discusse
d with you immediately or the
results will be sent to your doctor.
back to top

What are the benefits of a vascular ultrasound?

Vascular ultrasound evaluates the body's circulatory system. It can locate obstr
uctions and abnormalities such as
blood clots and plaque build-up. It can be used to evaluate the success of proce
dures such as renal artery bypass
and arterial bypass surgery. And it can be used to determine whether a patient i
s a good candidate for procedures
such as angioplasty.
back to top
What are the risks of a vascular ultrasound?
Because it uses no radiation, vascular ultrasound is a risk-free procedure that
is painless and non-invasive.
back to top
Where can I go for vascular ultrasound services?
Vascular Ultrasound services are offered at the following locations:
Grant Medical Center
111 South Grant Ave.
Phone: (614) 566-9350
Scheduling: (614) 566-1111
Fax: (614) 566-8259
Riverside Methodist Hospital
3535 Olentangy River Road
Phone: (614) 566-5253
Scheduling: (614) 566-1111
Fax: (614) 566-6826
Doctors Hospital
5100 West Broad Street
Phone: (614) 544-2288
Scheduling: (614) 566-1111
Fax: (614) 851-8657
Pasted
from
<http://www.ohiohealth.com/body.cfm?id=1589>
http://www.braintrack.com/colleges-by-career/sonographers
Ultrasound
Technician
Job
Description

Career
tips,
salaries,
and
lists
of
schools.
Ultrasound
technicians
(also
called
diagnostic
medical
sonographers)
use
imaging
technology
to
help
medical
practitioners
diagnose
and
treat
patient
health
problems.
An
ultrasound
machine
uses
sonography
to
bounce
high
frequency
sound
waves
off
of
specific
areas
within
the
body.
The
resulting
images
can
be
used
to
assess
and
diagnose
conditions.
Ultrasound
technicians
are
trained
in
using
this
technology
to
capture
images
of
babies
during
mothers'
pregnancy,
and
other
organs.
The
responsibilities
of
an
ultrasound
technician
typically
include:

Preparing
patients
for
procedures
Selecting
correct
equipment
settings
for
requested
tests
Helping
patients
move
into
specific
positions
for
the
best
imaging
Holding
and
directing
imaging
devices
to
specific
anatomical
locations
Examining
images
during
procedures
for
specific
cues
that
indicate
healthy
or
unhealthy
areas
Evaluating
images
for
quality
and
saving
good
ones
for
doctors'
review
Taking
measurements
and
analyzing
results
before
submitting
reports
to
doctors
Maintaining
medical
equipment
and
patient
records
Overseeing
sonography
or
diagnostic
imaging
departments
and
purchases
of
equipment
Ultrasound
technicians
may
choose
to
specialize
in
one
or
more
of
these
areas:
Obstetric
and
gynecologic
sonography
of
female
reproductive
organs
Abdominal
sonography
of
the
kidneys,
gallbladder,
liver,
kidneys,
pancreas
and
spleen
Neurosonography
of
the
brain
Breast
sonography
Vascular
sonography
of
blood
vessels
Cardiac
sonography
of
the
heart
While
most
ultrasound
technicians
work
in
hospitals,
some
work
as
a
contract
employee
and
travel
to
different
facilities
within
an
area.
They
may
use
portable
equipment
to
visit
patients
who
do
not
have
access
to
the
technology
otherwise.

Ultrasound
Technician
Degrees
and
Ultrasound
Technician
Schools

Ultrasound
technicians
can
get
a
degree
or
certification
in
diagnostic
medical
sonography.
Two-year
associate's
degree
programs
are
most
popular,
and
are
offered
through
vocational
schools,
colleges
and
universities.
Four-year
bachelor's
degrees
are
also
available
through
colleges
and
universities.
Two-year
certification
programs
are
offered
through
some
hospitals.
One-year
certification
programs
do
exist,
but
are
not
accredited
and
are
intended
for
current
workers
in
the
healthcare
industry
who
are
continuing
their
education.
Organizations
such
as
the
Commission
on
Accreditation
for
Allied
Health
Education
Programs
(CAAHEP)
accredit
college,
university
and
some
hospital
programs.
Program
applicants
with
experience
in
health
care
or
a
science
background
are
preferred
by
most
schools.

Ultrasound
Technician
Classes

For
a
degree
or
certification
in
diagnostic
medical
sonography,
coursework
is
usually
divided
between
class
time
and
clinical
hands-on
practice.
Classes
usually
include:

anatomy
and
physiology
technology
and
instrumentation
patient
care
medical
record
keeping
introductory
physics
medical
ethics
Online
Ultrasound
Technician
Classes
and
Programs

There
are
a
few
CAAHEP
accredited
online
diagnostic
medical
sonography
programs
available,
providing
a
convenient
and
flexible
solution
for
busy
students.
When
evaluating
these
programs,
find
out
how
much
clinical
time
is
required,
and
what
kind
of
job
placement
services
they
offer.
These
may
be
far
more
limited
than
campus-based
programs.

Ultrasound
Technician
Requirements

Word Page 3
Completion
of
an
accredited
two-year
degree
or
certification
program
in
diagnostic
medical
sonography
is
preferred
by
most
employers
who
hire
ultrasound
technicians.
State
licensure
is
not
required,
but
many
employers
hire
Registered
Diagnostic
Medical
Sonographers
(ARDMS)
who
have
been
certified
by
the
American
Registry
for
Diagnostic
Medical
Sonography
(ARDMS).

How
to
Evaluate
Ultrasound
Technician
Schools
Aspiring
ultrasound
technicians
should
consider
asking
the
following
questions
when
evaluating
programs
in
diagnostic
medical
sonography:

Accreditation
-Has
the
program
been
accredited
by
the
CAAHEP
or
other
accrediting
body?
Has
an
online
school
been
accredited
by
a
distance-learning
oversight
organization?
Focus
-Are
curricula
more
focused
on
learning
the
technology
or
learning
how
to
work
in
a
medical
setting
with
patients
and
doctors?
Which
is
needed
more
by
the
evaluating
student?
Practical
experience
-How
much
importance
is
placed
on
supervised
clinical
experience?
Are
there
plenty
of
desirable
opportunities?
School
and
class
size
-What
is
the
average
class
size
for
most
courses?
What
kinds
of
financial
aid
are
offered
(scholarships,
loans,
work
study,
grants,
etc.)?
Does
it
seem
like
a
large
part
of
tuition
is
going
to
amenities,
such
as
special
services
or
facilities,
that
may
not
be
utilized
by
the
evaluating
student?
Graduate
success
-Of
those
who
graduate
from
the
program,
how
many
become
ARDMS
certified?
How
many
find
and
keep
employment?
Example
Job
Titles
for
Sonographers
(Titles
per
survey
respondents
and
career
experts.)
 Cardiac
Sonographer
Cardiac/Vascular
Sonographer
Diagnostic
Medical
Sonographer
Echo
Tech
(Echocardiographic
Technician)
Registered
Diagnonstic
Medical
Sonographer
(RDMS)
Registered
Diagnostic
Medical
Sonographer
Sonogram
Technician
Sonographer
Sonography
Technician
Ultra
Sound
Technician
Ultrasonic
Tester
Ultrasonographer
Ultrasound
Technican
Ultrasound
Technician
Ultrasound
Technologist
Ultrasound
Tester
Pasted
from
<http://www.braintrack.com/colleges-by-career/sonographers>

Wouldyouenjoy

So
you
want
to
be
a
sonographer

http://www.flickr.com/photos/10845973@N00/4270891561/
 Providing
one-on-one
care
to
a
variety
of
people
ranging
from
healthy
to
critically
ill?
Using
high-tech
instrumentation
to
create
and
interpret
images
from
inside
the
human
body
that
are
used
by
physicians
to
make
a
medical
diagnosis?
Working
as
a
key
member
of
a
health
care
team?
Committing
to
life-long
learning
in
order
to
maintain
knowledge
and
expertise
in
a
rapidly
growing
health
care
profession?
If
so we'd
like
to
tell
you
about
a
career
in
Diagnostic
Medical
Sonography.

What
is
sonography?

Ultrasonography,
commonly
called
sonography,
is
a
diagnostic
medical
procedure
that
uses
high
frequency
sound
waves
(ultrasound)
to
produce
dynamic
visual
images
of
organs,
tissues,
or
blood
flow
inside
the
body.
This
type
of
procedure
is
often
referred
to
as
a
sonogram
or
ultrasound
scan.
Sonography
can
be
used
to
examine
many
parts
of
the
body,
such
as
the
abdomen,
breasts,
female
reproductive
system,
prostate,
heart,
and
blood
vessels.
Sonography
is
increasingly
being
used
in
the
detection
and
treatment
of
heart
disease,
heart
attack,
and
vascular
disease
that
can
lead
to
stroke.
It
is
also
used
to
guide
fine
needle,
tissue
biopsy
to
assist
in
taking
a
sample
of
cells
from
an
organ
for
lab
testing
(for
example,
a
test
for
cancer
in
breast
tissue).
Unlike
X-rays,
sonography
is
a
radiation-free
imaging
modality.
The
non-physician
professionals
who
perform
these
procedures
are
known
as
sonographers
and
vascular
technologists
(who
are
sonographers
specializing
in
imaging
and
tests
of
blood
vessels).
There
are
several
areas
of
specialization
in
the
field
of
sonography.
These
specialty
areas
are:
Abdomen
-evaluation
of
all
the
soft
tissues,
blood
vessels
and
organs
of
the
abdominal
cavities
(for
example,
liver,
spleen,
urinary
tract,
pancreas)
Breast
-frequently
used
to
evaluate
breast
abnormalities
that
are
found
with
screening
or
diagnostic
mammography
Obstetrics/Gynecology
-evaluation
of
the
female
reproductive
system
Echocardiography
-evaluation
of
the
anatomy
and
hemodynamics
(blood
flow)
of
the
heart,
its
valves
and
related
blood
vessels
Vascular
Technology
-evaluation
and
analysis
of
the
hemodynamics
(blood
flow)
of
peripheral
and
abdominal
blood
vessels
Neurosonology
-evaluation
of
the
brain
and
spinal
cord
Ophthalmology
-evaluation
of
the
eye,
including
orbital
structures
and
muscles

What
does
a
diagnostic
medical
sonographer
do?

A
diagnostic
medical
sonographer
is
a
highly-skilled
professional
who
uses
specialized
equipment
to
create
images
of
structures
inside
the
human
body
that
are
used
by
physicians
to
make
a
medical
diagnosis.
The
process
involves
placing
a
small
device
called
a
transducer
against
the
patient's
skin
near
the
body
area
to
be
imaged.
The
transducer
works
like
a
loudspeaker
and
microphone
because
it
can
transmit
sound
and
receive
sound.
The
transducer
sends
a
stream
of
high
frequency
sound
waves
into
the
body
that
bounce
off
the
structures
inside.
The
transducer
detects
sound
waves
as
they
bounce
off
the
internal
structures.
Different
structures
in
the
body
reflect
these
sound
waves
differently.
These
sounds
are
analyzed
by
a
computer
to
make
an
image
of
the
structure(s)
on
a
television
screen
or
that
can
be
recorded
on
videotape.
Sonographers
have
extensive,
direct
patient
contact
that
may
include
performing
some
invasive
procedures.
They
must
be
able
to
interact
compassionately
and
effectively
with
people
who
range
from
healthy
to
critically
ill.
The
professional
responsibilities
include,
but
are
not
limited,
to:

obtaining
and
recording
an
accurate
patient
history

performing
diagnostic
procedures
and
obtaining
diagnostic
images
analyzing
technical
information
using
independent
judgement
in
recognizing
the
need
to
extend
the
scope
of
the
procedure
according
to
the
diagnostic
findings
providing
an
oral
or
written
summary
of
the
technical
findings
to
the
physician
for
medical
diagnosis
providing
quality
patient
care
collaborating
with
physicians
and
other
members
of
the
health
care
team.
Sonographers
must
also
be
knowledgeable
about
and
limit
the
risk
from
possible
exposure
to
blood
and
body
fluids.
Many
sonographers
also
assist
in
electronic
and
clerical
scheduling,
record
keeping,
and
computerized
image
archiving.
Sonographers
may
also
have
managerial
or
supervisory
responsibilities.
What
are
some
of
the
technical
standards?

Sonographers
and
Vascular
Technologists
must
be
able
to:

Lift
more
than
50
pounds
routinely
Push
and
pull
routinely
Bend
and
stoop
routinely
Have
full
use
of
both
hands,
wrists
and
shoulders
Distinguish
audible
sounds
Adequately
view
sonograms,
including
color
distinctions
Work
standing
on
their
feet
80%
of
the
time
Interact
compassionately
and
effectively
with
the
sick
or
injured
Assist
patients
on
and
off
examining
tables
Communicate
effectively
with
patients
and
other
health
care
professionals
Organize
and
accurately
perform
the
individual
steps
in
a
sonographic
procedure
in
the
proper
sequence
What
are
the
career
opportunities?

Sonography
is
a
dynamic
profession
that
has
grown
significantly
over
the
past
20
years.
With
rapidly
developing
new
technologies
and
increased
use
of
diagnostic
ultrasound
procedures,
growth
is
projected
to
continue
in
the
future
with
employment
opportunities
for
qualified
sonographers
in
both
urban
and
rural
areas
nationwide.
Sonographers
and
vascular
technologists
can
choose
to
work
in
clinics,
hospitals,
private
practice
physician
offices,
public
health
facilities,
laboratories,
and
other
medical
settings
performing
examinations
in
their
areas
of
specialization.
Career
advancement
opportunities
exist
in
education,
administration,
research,
and
in
commercial
companies
as
education/application
specialists,
sales
representatives,
technical
advisors,
etc.

What
are
the
salaries
for
sonographers?

In
addition
to
excellent
career
opportunities,
salaries
for
sonographers
are
competitive
with
or
higher
than
other
professionals
with
similar
levels
of
education.
According
to
the
SDMS
Salary
and
Benefits
Survey
report
(released

Word Page 4
March,
2005),
the
median
salary
for
sonographers
is
$61,984.
This
income
includes:
1)
hourly
salary,
2)
overtime
and,
3)
on-call
pay.
The
typical
hourly
pay
rate
is
$29,
and
the
number
of
overtime
hours
worked
per
week
by
sonographers
is
3.
The
typical
on-call
pay
rate
is
$3.00
per
hour,
and
the
call-in
rate
of
pay
is
$42
per
hour.
Note:
The
SDMS
Salary
and
Benefits
Survey
report
is
available
for
free
to
all
SDMS
members.
Salaries
vary
depending
on
years
of
experience,
number
of
specialties
practiced,
as
well
geographic
location.
There

are
opportunities
for
full-time
and
part-time
employment.

How
long
does
it
take
to
become
a
diagnostic
medical
sonographer?

Comprehensive
Diagnostic
Medical
Sonography
programs
vary
in
length
from
one
to
four
years
depending
on
the
degree
or
certificate
awarded.
Prerequisites
also
vary
among
programs
from
high
school
diploma
or
GED
to
specific
qualifications
in
a
related
allied
health
profession.
The
SDMS
recommends
that
prospective
students
select
a
reputable
program
that
follows
minimum
curriculum
and
clinical
education
standards
recognized
by
the
American
Registry
of
Diagnostic
Medical
Sonographers
(ARDMS.)
The
SDMS
does
not
recommend
training
programs
that
provide
limited
opportunity
for
students
to
apply
classroom
instruction
and
technical
skills
in
patient
care
settings
(clinical
rotations).
When
seeking
a
reputable
program,
candidates
might
wish
to
consult
the
Commission
on
Accreditation
of
Allied
Health
Education
Programs
(CAAHEP)
which
accredits
diagnostic
medical
sonography
programs
in
the
United
States.
A
list
of
accredited
programs
is
available
on
CAAHEP's
web
site,
www.caahep.org.

Pasted
from
<http://sdms.org/career/career.asp>

http://www.allalliedhealthschools.com/faqs/ultrasoun
Five Reasons to Get Ultrasound Training
d-training
.
Enter the job field in a short time. While a 2-year associates degree is the mos
t popular
option for students getting their ultrasound training, if you have previous expe
rience in a
health profession, you may be able complete an ultrasound training certificate p
rogram in
about a year.
.
Be a part of a cutting-edge career field. While most people associate ultrasound
with
pregnancy, you'll actually have a wide variety of applications for your ultrasou
nd training.
From obstetrics to ophthalmology, ultrasound imaging is used in a growing number
of ways,
which translates to good job opportunities for the future.
.
Earn a great salary. Your ultrasound training will qualify you for a job with gr
eat salary
potential. According to Salary.com, the middle 50 percent of ultrasound technici
ans earn
between $57,961 and $68,926. The top 10 percent earn $74,235 and up.
.
Use your skills to help people. With ultrasound training, you'll be preparing fo
r a job you
can feel good about. Being able to use your knowledge and skills to help people
is a reward
that goes beyond earning a paycheck.
.
Lots of job opportunities. Health careers are some of the fastest growing jobs i
n the United
States and ultrasound is no exception. When you complete your ultrasound training,
you'll
be ready to enter a career field that the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts wi
ll grow 19
percent by 2016, which is faster than the average growth for all careers.
Pasted
from
<http://www.allalliedhealthschools.com/faqs/ultrasound-training>

http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Registered_Vascular_Ultrasound_Technol
ogist/Hourly_Rate
Hourly Rate Chart
Median Hourly Rate by Years Experience
Job: Registered Vascular Ultrasound Technologist

Country: United States | Currency: USD | Updated: 3 Mar 2010 | Individuals Repor
ting: 210
This chart displays Median Hourly Rate by Years Experience for Job: Registered V
ascular Ultrasound
Technologist. Get your own personalized salary report in just five minutes by fi
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Pasted from <http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Registered_Vascular_Ultraso
und_Technologist/Hourly_Rate>
A vascular ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to produce a picture of sy
stems or organs inside
the body. These images show real-time images of the body's internal movements an
d functioning,
making an ultrasound more valuable than an x-ray, which produces a still picture
, in some cases. A
vascular ultrasound in particular shows pictures of the veins and arteries. The
areas of the body most
commonly assessed by a vascular ultrasound include the neck, arms and legs.
Ads by Google
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Become Certified in Ultrasound at These Schools Near You.
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During a vascular ultrasound, a transducer is used to send sound waves into the
body and record the
waves that are reflected back as the sound is bounced off the body's organs. The
se sound waves are
generally inaudible. A computer interprets this data and produces a picture that
can be viewed on a
screen. A radiologist will then analyze these pictures, and work with a patient'
s primary care physician to
determine what to do next.
A Doppler ultrasound can be a valuable tool when performing a vascular ultrasoun
d. This type of
ultrasound technique can show blood moving through the arteries, organs and vein
s, and help doctors
diagnose a particular illness or problem. A vascular ultrasound can show such pr
oblems as tumors, blood
clots, blockages, plaque, emboli, and enlarged arteries. These ultrasounds can a
lso help doctors evaluate
candidates for angioplasties and bypass surgeries and assess the body's response
to a newly
transplanted organ. The cause and severity of a stroke can also be determined th
rough a vascular
ultrasound.
To perform a vascular ultrasound, a radiologist or sonographer will apply a warm
gel to the area being
observed. This is often done while the patient is lying down. Then the transduce
r will be placed against
the skin, moving it over the area until the desired images are produced. Dependi
ng on the equipment
used, the patient may hear a pulsing sound or feel a slight amount of pressure.
In preparation for a vascular ultrasound, patients should remove all jewelry and
will probably be asked
to wear a loose gown. Ultrasounds are generally painless and fast, though depend
ing on the area of the
body being viewed, patients may be asked to refrain from swallowing or breathing
. No adverse effects
on patients have been recorded. Many patients prefer this method of testing as t
here aren't any
needles, anesthetics, dyes or radiation involved. Patients are also free to eat
and drink before the
procedure. A standard ultrasound takes about thirty to ninety minutes.
Pasted from <http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-vascular-ultrasound.htm>
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-vascular-ultrasound.htm
Search
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STI > Academics > Degrees > Health Technology > Vascular Ultrasound
Technology
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Vascular Ultrasound
Technology, AAS Degree
Vascular Technologists
perform various diagnostic
medical procedures through
the use of high frequency
sound waves to produce
dynamic visual images of
organs, tissues, or blood flow
inside the body that are used
by physicians to make a
medical diagnosis.
Evaluation and analysis of
the hemodynamics (blood
flow) of peripheral and
abdominal blood vessels will
be evaluated through the use
of high-tech, non-imaging
and imaging instrumentation.
The Vascular Technologist
must be able to obtain
accurate patient history,
perform high-tech diagnostic
procedures, analyze
technical information and
summarize technical findings
to the physician, provide
quality patient care and
collaborating with physicians
and other members of the
health team.
Clinical Affiliation: Students
will be placed in a clinical
affiliation for 7 months in
medical centers throughout
the United States. If a
student does not complete
specialty Cardiovascular
classes in three consecutive
semesters, faculty and
administration will determine
whether courses must be
repeated before enrolling in
clinical. Clinical placement is
determined only after the
student has been observed
safely and consistently
performing all required
procedures in specified time
frames.
http://www.southeasttech.edu/Academics/Degrees/Health/Pages/VascularUltrasoundTe
chnology.aspx
Word Page 6
Background checks and
drug screenings are
required for this program.
For more information
please see Additional
Program Requirements.
Semest
er
Course
Title
Credits
This
course
must be
complet
ed prior
to
taking
PHYS
100.
These
credits
will be
tabulate
d into
the total
credit
hours
require
d for
this
progra
m.
MATH
102T
College
Algebra
3
Summ
er &
Fall
(Core)-
Prereq
uisites
to
Cardio
vascul
ar
CHEM
106T
Chemis
try
Survey
4
CHEM
106L
Chemis
try
Survey
Lab
CIS
101
Comput
er
Essenti
als
2
CV 101 Intro to
Cardiov
ascular
Ultraso
und
1
CVP
102
Vascula
r
History
&
Physica
l
1
ENGL
101T
Compo
sition
3
HC 119 Anatom
y/Physi
ology
5
HC
119L
Anatom
y/Physi
ology
Lab
HC 117 Medical
Termin
ology
1
HC 121 Patient
Care
Techniq
ues I
3
HC
121L
Patient
Care
Techniq
ues I
Lab
*PHYS
100
Applied
Physics
3
23
Spring
CV 123 Ultraso
und
Physics
3
CVP
124
Vascula
r
Hemod
ynamic
s
3
CVP
123L
Vascula
r
Hemod
ynamic
s Lab
1
CVP
136
Vascula
r
Anatom
y
2
CVP
137L
Vascula
r
Anatom
y Lab
1
HC 114 Health
Care/H
uman
Relatio
ns
3
HC 124 Basic
Pharma
cology
2
CV 125 EKG A
nalysis
and
Interpre
tation
2
17
Summ
Word Page 7
Summ
er
CVP
210
Vascula
r
Pathop
hysiolo
gy I
3
CVP
211L
Vascula
r
Pathop
hysiolo
gy I Lab
1
SOC Social
Science
Elective
3
SPCM
101T
Funda
mentals
of
Speech
3
10
Fall
CV 131 Cardiov
ascular
Physiol
ogy
3
CV 202 Cardiac
Patholo
gies
3
CVP
125
Applied
Vascula
r
Ultraso
und
Physics
1
CVP
126L
Applied
Vascula
r
Ultraso
und
Physics
Lab
1
CVP
214
Vascula
r
Pathop
hysiolo
gy II
3
CVP
215L
Vascula
r
Pathop
hysiolo
gy II
Lab
1
CVP
220
Abdomi
nal
Vascula
r
Ultraso
und
2
CVP
221L
Abdomi
nal
Vascula
r
Ultraso
und
Lab
1
PSYC
101T
General
Psychol
ogy
3
18
Spring
CVP
233
Vascula
r
Ultraso
und
Clinical
I
14
CVP
255
Vascula
r
Registr
y
Review
2
16
Summ
er
CVP
243
Vascula
r
Ultraso
und
Clinical
II
12
12
Total
Credits
: 99
Requirements: Achievement
of a grade of "C" or higher
for PHYS 100 & all HC, CV
and CVN courses. Clinical
placement by Program
Chair.
Registry Requirement: In
order to maintain CAAHEP
accreditation, all Cardiovascular
graduates must
take a registry examination
at the earliest possible date
after completion of the
Cardiovascular program.
Students entering a program
in any semester other than
outlined may not graduate in
the expected amount of time.
©Southeast Technical Institute 2009 Contact
Webmaster Login
Pasted from <http://www.southeasttech.edu/Academics/Degrees/Health/Pages/Vascula
rUltrasoundTechnology.aspx>
Word Page 8
Home | Personal | Small Business |
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Site Search:
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New Search | Methodology | Help
The median expected salary for a typical Vascular
Technician in the United States is $59,854. This basic
market pricing report was prepared using our Certified
Compensation Professionals' analysis of survey data
collected from thousands of HR departments at
employers of all sizes, industries and geographies.
Go to CNNMoney and Salary.com Article about Best Jobs
Click here for the complete list of job titles by state
Data as of November 2009
Vascular Technician
25th%ile Median 75th%ile
the United States
$53,762 $59,854 $67,343
IMPORTA
NT: Your
pay can
be
dramatic
ally
affected
by
compens
able
factors
such as
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Job Description
Vascular Technician
Performs ultrasound examinations of the cerebral, peripheral, and abdominal vess
els to assist
the physician in the diagnosis of disorders affecting the circulation. May perfo
rm therapeutic
procedures, such as pseudoaneurysm compression. Records and maintains test data
and
prepares preliminary interpretations of test results. May require an associate's
degree or its
equivalent, pass the national exam given by the American Registry of Diagnostic
Medical
Sonography (ARDMS), and current registration as a Registered Vascular Technologi
st (RVT)
through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Familiar with
standard
concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on experie
nce and
judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under
general
supervision. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required. Typically
reports to a
physician or manager.
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Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians
Nature of the Work
Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement
Employment
Job Outlook
Projections
 Earnings
Wages
Related Occupations
Sources of Additional Information
Significant Points
Employment is expected to grow much faster than average.
Technologists and technicians with multiple professional credentials, trained to
perform a wide
range of procedures, will have the best prospects.
About 77 percent of jobs are in hospitals.
Workers typically need a 2-year associate degree at a junior or community colleg
e; most
employers also require a professional credential.
Nature of the Work About this section
Cardiovascular technologists and technicians assist physicians in diagnosing and
treating
cardiac (heart) and peripheral vascular (blood vessel) ailments.
Cardiovascular technologists and technicians schedule appointments, review physi
cians'
interpretations and patient files, and monitor patients' heart rates. They also
operate and care
for testing equipment, explain test procedures, and compare findings to a standa
rd to identify
problems. Other day-to-day activities vary significantly between specialties.
Technologists may specialize in different areas of practice: invasive cardiology
, non-invasive
which includes echocardiography or vascular technology. Technicians specialize in
electrocardiograms and stress testing.
Invasive cardiology. Cardiovascular technologists specializing in invasive proce
dures are called
cardiology technologists. They assist physicians with cardiac catheterization pr
ocedures in
which a small tube, or catheter, is threaded through a patient's artery from a s
pot on the
patient's groin to the heart. The procedure can determine whether a blockage exi
sts in the
blood vessels that supply the heart muscle or help to diagnose other problems. S
ome of these
procedures may involve balloon angioplasty, which can be used to treat blockages
of blood
vessels or heart valves without the need for heart surgery. Cardiology technolog
ists assist
physicians as they insert a catheter with a balloon on the end to the point of t
he obstruction.
Catheters are also used in electrophysiology tests, which help locate the specif
ic areas of heart
tissue that give rise to the abnormal electrical impulses that cause arrhythmias
.
Technologists prepare patients for cardiac catheterization by first positioning
them on an
examining table and then shaving, cleaning, and administering anesthesia to the
top of their
leg near the groin. During the procedures, they monitor patients' blood pressure
and heart
rate with EKG equipment and notify the physician if something appears to be wron
g. Some
cardiology technologists also prepare and monitor patients during open-heart sur
gery and
during the insertion of pacemakers and stents that open up blockages in arteries
to the heart
and major blood vessels.
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos100.htm
Word Page 10
and
major
blood
vessels.
Noninvasive
technology.
Technologists who
specialize
in
echocardiography
or
vascular
technology
perform
noninvasive
tests.
Tests are
called
noninvasive
if
they
do
not
require
the
insertion
of
probes or
other
instruments into
the
patient's body.
For
example,
procedures
such
as Doppler
ultrasound
transmit
high-frequency
sound
waves into
areas
of
the
patient's body
and
then
processes reflected
echoes of
the
sound
waves to
form
an
image.
Technologists view
the
ultrasound
image
on
a
screen
and
may
record
the
image
on
videotape
or
photograph
it
for
interpretation
and
diagnosis by
a
physician.
(See
the
statement
on
diagnostic medical
sonographers
elsewhere
in
the
Handbook
to
learn
more
about
other
sonographers.)
Echocardiographers.
Technologists who
use
ultrasound
to
examine
the
heart
chambers,
valves,
and
vessels are
referred
to
as cardiac sonographers,
or
echocardiographers.
They
use
ultrasound
instrumentation
to
create
images called
echocardiograms.
An
echocardiogram
may
be
performed
while
the
patient
is either
resting
or
physically
active.
Technologists may
administer
medication
to
physically
active
patients to
assess their
heart
function.
Cardiac
sonographers also
may
assist
physicians who
perform
other
procedures.
Vascular
technologists.
Technologists who
assist
physicians
in
the
diagnosis of
disorders
affecting
the
circulation
are
known
as vascular
technologists
or
vascular
sonographers.
Vascular
technologists complete
patients'
medical
history,
evaluate
pulses and
assess blood
flow
in
arteries and
veins by
listening
to
the
vascular
flow
sounds for
abnormalities,
and
assure
the
appropriate
vascular
test
has been
ordered.
Then
they
perform
a
noninvasive
procedure
using
ultrasound
instruments to
record
vascular
information
such
as vascular
blood
flow,
blood
pressure,
oxygen
saturation,
cerebral
circulation,
peripheral
circulation,
and
abdominal
circulation.
Many
of
these
tests are
performed
during
or
immediately
after
surgery.
Vascular
technologists then
provide
a
summary
of
findings
to
the
physician
to
aid
in
patient
diagnosis and
management.
Cardiographic technicians.
Technicians who
specialize
in
electrocardiography,
or
EKG,
stress
testing,
and
perform
Holter
monitor
procedures are
known
as cardiographic
or
electrocardiograph
(or
EKG)
technicians.
Technicians
take
EKGs,
which
trace
electrical
impulses transmitted
by
the
heart,
attach
electrodes to
the
patient's chest,
arms,
and
legs,
and
then
manipulate
switches on
an
EKG
machine
to
obtain
a
reading.
An
EKG
is printed
out
for
interpretation
by
the
physician.
This
test
is done
before
most
kinds of
surgery
or
as part
of
a
routine
physical
examination.
EKG
technicians with
advanced
training
perform
Holter
monitor
and
stress testing.
For
Holter
monitoring,
technicians place
electrodes on
the
patient's chest
and
attach
a
portable
EKG
monitor
to
the
patient's belt.
Following
24
or
more
hours of
normal
activity
by
the
patient,
the
technician
removes a
tape
from
the
monitor
and
places it
in
a
scanner.
After
checking
the
quality
of
the
recorded
impulses on
an
electronic
screen,
the
technician
usually
prints the
information
from
the
tape
for
analysis by
a
physician.
Physicians use
the
output
from
the
scanner
to
diagnose
heart
ailments,
such
as heart
rhythm
abnormalities or
problems with
pacemakers.
For
a
treadmill
stress test,
EKG
technicians document
the
patient's medical
history,
explain
the
procedure,
connect
the
patient
to
an
EKG
monitor,
and
obtain
a
baseline
reading
and
resting
blood
pressure.
Next,
they
monitor
the
heart's performance
while
the
patient
is walking
on
a
treadmill,
gradually
increasing
the
treadmill's speed
to
observe
the
effect
of
increased
exertion.
Like
vascular
technologists and
cardiac sonographers,
cardiographic technicians who
perform
EKGs,
Holter
monitoring,
and
stress tests are
known
as noninvasive
technicians.
Work
environment.
Cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians spend
a
lot
of
time
walking
and
standing.
Heavy
lifting
may
be
involved
to
move
equipment
or
transfer
patients.
Those
who
work
in
catheterization
laboratories may
face
stressful
working
conditions because
they
are
in
close
contact
with
patients with
serious heart
ailments.
For
example,
some
patients may
encounter
complications that
have
life-or-death
implications.
Some
cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians may
have
the
potential
for
radiation
exposure.
However,
exposure
is kept
to
a
minimum
by
strict
adherence
to
radiation
safety
guidelines,
such
as wearing
heavy
protective
aprons while
conducting
certain
procedures.
In
addition,
those
who
use
sonography
can
be
at
an
increased
risk
for
musculoskeletal
disorders
such
as carpel
tunnel
syndrome,
neck
and
back
strain,
and
eye
strain.
However,
greater
use
of
ergonomic equipment
and
an
increasing
awareness will
continue
to
minimize
such
risks.
Technologists and
technicians generally
work
a
5-day,
40-hour
week
that
may
include
weekends.
Those
in
catheterization
laboratories tend
to
work
longer
hours and
may
work
evenings.
They
also
may
be
on
call
during
the
night
and
on
weekends.
About
18
percent
worked
part-time
in
2008.

Cardiovascular
technologists may
specialize
in
invasive
cardiology,
echocardiography,
and
vascular
technology.

Training,
Other
Qualifications,
and
Advancement
About
this section
Cardiovascular
technologists typically
need
an
associate
degree
for
entry-level
employment.
Most
employers
also
require
a
professional
credential.
Technicians also
receive
on-the-job
training.
Education
and
training.
The
majority
of
cardiovascular
technologists,
vascular
technologists,
and
cardiac sonographers complete
a
2-year
junior
or
community
college
program
resulting
in
an
associate
degree.
However,
4-year
programs are
increasingly
available.
The
first
year
is
dedicated
to
core
courses and
is followed
by
a
year
of
specialized
instruction
in
either
invasive
cardiovascular,
noninvasive
cardiovascular,
or
noninvasive
vascular
technology.
Those
who
are
qualified
in
an
allied
health
profession
need
to
complete
only
the
year
of
specialized
instruction.
The
Commission
on
Accreditation
of
Allied
Health
Professionals (CAAHEP)
accredits
cardiovascular
technology
education
programs.
In
January
2009,
there
were
34
accredited
programs.
Similarly,
those
who
want
to
study
echocardiography
or
vascular
sonography
may
also
attend
CAAHEP-accredited
programs in
diagnostic medical
sonography.
In
2009,
there
were
168
such
accredited
programs.
Those
who
attend
these
accredited
programs are
eligible
to
obtain
professional
certification.
Unlike
most
other
cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians,
most
EKG
technicians are
trained
on
the
job
by
an
EKG
supervisor
or
a
cardiologist.
On-the-job
training
for
EKG
technicians usually
takes about
4
to
6
weeks.
Most
employers prefer
to
train
people
already
in
the
healthcare
field nursing
aides,
for
example.
Some
EKG
technicians are
students enrolled
in
2-year
programs to
become
technologists,
working
part
time
to
gain
experience
and
make
contact
with
employers.
For
technicians who
perform
Holter
monitoring
on-the-job
training
may
last
around
18
to
24
months.
One-year
certification
programs also
exist
for
basic EKGs,
Holter
monitoring,
and
stress testing
and
can
be
an
alternative
to
on-the-job
training.
Licensure
and
certification.
Credentialing
is voluntary.
However,
it
is the
professional
standard
and
most
employers require
credentialing.
Credentialing
for
cardiovascular
technologists is available
from
Cardiovascular
Credentialing
International
(CCI)
and
the
American
Registry
of
Diagnostic Medical
Sonographers (ARDMS).
Most
credentials require
that
technologists complete
an
accredited
education
program
to
qualify
to
sit
for
credentialing
examination.
Continuing
education
is required
in
most
cases to
maintain
certification.
For
specific requirements,
contact
the
credentialing
body.
Other
qualifications.
Cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians must
be
reliable,
have
mechanical
aptitude,
and
be
able
to
follow
detailed
instructions.
A
pleasant,
relaxed
manner
for
putting
patients at
ease
is an
asset.
They
must
be
articulate
as
they
must
communicate
technically
with
physicians and
also
explain
procedures simply
to
patients.
Advancement.
Technicians may
advance
to
the
technologist
level
of
practice
with
supplemental
formal
education
and
credentialing.
Technologists can
advance
to
higher
levels of
the
profession
as
many
institutions structure
the
occupation
with
multiple
levels,
each
having
an
increasing
amount
of
responsibility.
Advancement
may
occur
through
multiple
credentialing
in
more
than
one
cardiovascular
specialty
or
through
work
experience.
Technologists may
also
advance
into
supervisory
or
management
positions.
Other
possibilities include
working
in
an
educational
setting
or
conducting
laboratory
work.
Employment
About
this section

Word Page 11
Occupational TitleEmployment,
2008ProjectedEmploy,
Occupational TitleEmployment,
2008ProjectedEmploy,
r
Cardiovasculartechnologistsandtechnicians49,50061,400[PDF][XLS]
Cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians held
about
49,500
jobs in
2008.
About
77
percent
of
jobs were
in
hospitals (public
and
private),
primarily
in
cardiology
departments.
The
remaining
jobs were
mostly
in
offices of
physicians,
including
cardiologists,
or
in
medical
and
diagnostic laboratories,
including
diagnostic imaging
centers.

Job
Outlook
About
this section

Employment
is expected
to
grow
much
faster
than
the
average;
technologists and
technicians
with
multiple
professional
credentials,
trained
to
perform
a
wide
range
of
procedures,
will
have
the
best
prospects.
Employment
change.
Employment
of
cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians is
expected
to
increase
24
percent
through
the
year
2018,
much
faster
than
the
average
for
all
occupations.
Demand
will
stem
from
the
prevalence
of
heart
disease
and
the
aging
population,
because
older
people
have
a
higher
incidence
of
heart
disease
and
other
complications of
the
heart
and
vascular
system.
Procedures such
as ultrasound
imaging
and
radiology
are
being
performed
more
often
as a
replacement
for
more
expensive
and
more
invasive
procedures.
Due
to
advances in
medicine
and
greater
public awareness,
signs of
vascular
disease
can
be
detected
earlier,
creating
demand
for
cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians to
perform
various procedures.
Employment
of
vascular
technologists and
echocardiographers
will
grow
as advances in
vascular
technology
and
sonography
reduce
the
need
for
more
costly
and
invasive
procedures.
However,
fewer
EKG
technicians will
be
needed,
as hospitals
train
nursing
aides and
others to
perform
basic EKG
procedures.
Individuals trained
in
Holter
monitoring
and
stress testing
are
expected
to
have
more
favorable
job
prospects than
those
who
can
perform
only
a
basic EKG.
The
rules governing
reimbursement
by
Medicare
and
Medicaid
for
medical
procedures
will
affect
the
frequency
of
their
use
and
demand
for
imaging
technologists.
Job
prospects.
In
addition
to
job
growth,
job
openings for
cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians will
arise
from
replacement
needs as individuals
transfer
to
other
jobs or
leave
the
labor
force.
Job
prospects will
be
best
for
those
with
multiple
professional
credentials,
trained
to
perform
a
wide
range
of
procedures.
Those
willing
to
relocate
or
work
irregular
hours also
will
have
better
job
opportunities.
It
is
not
uncommon
for
cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians to
move
between
the
specialties
within
the
occupation
by
obtaining
certification
in
more
than
one
specialty.
Technologists with
multiple
credentials will
be
the
most
marketable
to
employers.

Projections Data
About
this section

SOCCode29-2031
Change2008-1DetailedStatisticsNumbePercent11,90024
ment,
20188
NOTE:Datainthistablearerounded.Seethediscussionof
theemploymentprojectionstableintheHandbookintroductorychapteron
OccupationalInformationIncludedintheHandbook.
Projections
data
from
the
National Employment
Matrix

Earnings About
this section

Median
annual
wages of
cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians were
$47,010
in
May
2008.
The
middle
50
percent
earned
between
$32,800
and
$61,580.
The
lowest
10
percent
earned
less than
$25,510,
and
the
highest
10
percent
earned
more
than
$74,760.
Median
annual
wages of
cardiovascular
technologists
and
technicians in
2008
were
$48,590
in
offices
of
physicians and
$46,670
in
general
medical
and
surgical
hospitals.

For
the
latest
wage
information:

The
above
wage
data
are
from
the
Occupational
Employment
Statistics
(OES)
survey
program,
unless
otherwise
noted.
For
the
latest
National,
State,
and
local
earnings
data,
visit
the
following
pages:

cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians
Related
Occupations
About
this section
Cardiovascular
technologists and
technicians operate
sophisticated
equipment
that
helps
physicians
and
other
health
practitioners to
diagnose
and
treat
patients.
Similar
occupations
include:

Diagnostic medical
sonographers
Nuclear
medicine
technologists
Radiation
therapists
Radiologic technologists and
technicians
Respiratory
therapy
technicians
Sources of
Additional
Information
About
this section

Disclaimer:

Links to
non-BLS
Internet
sites are
provided
for
your
convenience
and
do
not
constitute
an
endorsement.

For
general
information
about
a
career
in
cardiovascular
technology,
contact:

Alliance
of
Cardiovascular
Professionals,
P.O.
Box
2007
Midlothian,
VA
23113.
Internet:
http://www.acp-online.org

For
a
list
of
accredited
programs in
cardiovascular
technology,
contact:

Committee
on
Accreditation
for
Allied
Health
Education
Programs,
1361
Park
St.,
Clearwater,
FL
33756.
Internet:
http://www.caahep.org
Society
for
Vascular
Ultrasound,
4601
Presidents Dr.,
Suite
260,
Lanham,
MD
20706.
Internet:
http://www.svunet.org
For
information
regarding
registration
and
certification,
contact:

Cardiovascular
Credentialing
International,
1500
Sunday
Dr.,
Suite
102,
Raleigh,
NC
27607.
Internet:
http://www.cci-online.org
American
Registry
of
Diagnostic Medical
Sonographers,
51
Monroe
St.,
Plaza
East
One,
Rockville,
MD
20850-2400.
Internet:
http://www.ardms.org
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Cardiovascular
Technologists and
Technicians (29-2031.00)
Suggested
citation:
Bureau
of
Labor
Statistics,
U.S.
Department
of
Labor,
Occupational
Outlook
Handbook,
2010-11
Edition,
Cardiovascular
Technologists and
Technicians,
on
the
Internet
at
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos100.htm
(visited
March
25,
2010).
Last
Modified
Date:
December
17,
2009

Pasted
from
<http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos100.htm>

http://www.augie.edu/admission/financing-your-education/costs
Comprehensive Costs for 2010-2011
Tuition and Fees
Word Page 12
Tuition $24,790
Student Activity Fee $314
Supports campus events, concerts and student activities.
Room and Board $6,260
Does not include S.D. sales tax of $226
Total $31,364
The cost of books will vary according to the academic program being pursued. On
average, books will
run $800 to $1000 per year.
* Because the College's scholarship and financial aid program is intended to ass
ist students with direct
educational costs for tuition, room and board, students authorized to live off c
ampus at any time during
enrollment will receive their awards on a pro rata basis.
Augustana's Refund and Repayment Policy complies with federal regulations.
Pasted
from
<http://www.augie.edu/admission/financing-your-education/costs>

Word Page 13
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Prepared for
David Kampmann3

Prepared by
Stacey Kriz
Vascular Ultrasound

March 25, 2010

VASCULAR ULTRASOUND TECHNITION
What is Vascular Ultrasound?
Vascular ultrasound is an ultrasound that is taking pictures of parts of your bo
dy.
Specialist use ultrasound to see what is happening inside your body, they use th
is to see the
movements. Vascular ultrasound is used to see blood flow through blood vessels.
Vascular Ultrasounds helps monitor blood flow from the tissues and organs throug
h the
body, you can see if there is any blockage, blood clots, narrowing of vessels an
d tumors.
What is used for the ultrasound?
The tool that is used to help see what is happening inside your body consists of
a
computer, a display screen and a transducer which is what is used to look into y
our body to see
the blood flow.
Before scanning the area that needs to be tested, a gel is applied to the skin s
o there are
no air pockets between the skin and transducer. Than the transducer is pressed o
n the area that
needs to be scanned and the image appears on the display screen.
How the scanner works is when it hits an object the sound waves bounce back from
the
object to the transducer and it reads what size the object is, how far away it i
s and what type of
consistency it is, meaning is the object filled with fluid or solid. This is use
d to see whether there
is anything wrong with vessels, organs, tissues.
Doppler ultrasound can also be used; this ultrasound is used to measure speed an
d
director of blood cells. To tell that the blood cells are moving at the wrong sp
eed and/or director
Stacey Kriz
2
the Doppler ultrasound would have sound waves sent back to the machine that woul
d be
different pitched than the normal sound waves.
Are there any risks of vascular ultrasound?
There are no risks, this ultrasound does not have any radiation so there is no h
arm and is
painless.
How much does a Vascular Ultrasound Technician make?
It all depends on where you work or what state you live in, but the average sala
ry that an
ultrasound technician makes would be about $29 an hour.
School?
The majority of vascular technologist will complete their schooling in about a 2
year
program at a community/junior college to get their associates degree, but you ma
y also take a 4
year course. In the first year of school, you are mostly taking core courses, in
the follow year you
would be working on particular training.
For technicians you must be dependable, and must be able to practice a relaxed
performance in putting patients at ease during the testing.
Becoming a vascular technologist seems exciting, fun, and intriguing. I am sure
that once
I am in the profession I will enjoy everything that vascular ultrasound has to o
ffer.
Stacey Kriz
3
REFERENCES

Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians. (2009, 12 17). Retrieved 03 25, 20

10, from U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos100.htm
Career So You Want to Be a Sonographer. (1999). Retrieved 03 26, 2010, from Soci
ety of
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: http://sdms.org/career/career.asp
Ultrasound -Vascular. (2009, 06 26). Retrieved 03 26, 2010, from Radiology Info:
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=vascularus
Vascular Ultrasound . (2001, 11). Retrieved 03 26, 2010, from Ohio Health Neighb
orhood Care:
http://www.ohiohealth.com/body.cfm?id=1589
Vascular Ultrasound . (2001, 11). Retrieved 03 26, 2010, from Ohio Health Neighb
orhood Care:
http://www.ohiohealth.com/body.cfm?id=1589
Stacey Kriz
4
Stacey Kriz
Colleges Tuition How many credits Total
Augustana $120 78 $9,360
University of Sioux Falls $280 71 $19,880
Globe University $625 75 $46,875
Kilian Community College $245 66 $16,170
Southeast Tech $141 99 $13,959
Cost of College
$0
$100
$200
$300
$400
$500
$600
$700
Augustana University of Sioux
Falls
Globe University Kilian Community
College
Southeast Tech
Cost Per Credit
Colleges
http://www.augie.edu/
http://www.usiouxfalls.edu/
http://siouxfalls.globeuniversity.edu/
http://www.kilian.edu/
http://www.southeasttech.edu/Pages/default.aspx
References
Augustana
University of
Sioux Falls
Globe University
Kilian
Community
College
Southeast
Tech
Total