Sonography is the use of sound waves to generate an image for the assessment and diagnosis of various medical conditions. Sonographers, also known as ultrasonographers, use special equipment to direct non-ionizing, high frequency sound waves into areas of the patient’s body.
What do Sonographers do?
- Obtain and record an accurate patient history
- Provide for patient care and safety
- Perform medical procedures to produce, evaluate and record diagnostic ultrasound images
- Use independent judgment in recognizing the need to extend the scope of the procedure
- Analyze technical findings using acquired knowledge
- Provide a summary of technical findings to the interpreting physician to aid in the medical diagnosis
Types of Sonographers
- General
- Vascular
- Echo
- OB/Gyn
Types of work environments
- Hospitals
- Outpatient Clinics
- Physicians' Offices
- Freestanding Imaging Centers
Personality traits
- Ability to provide one on one care
- Willingness to work unusual hours, plus overtime and on call
- Eagerness to learn is the key to advancement
- Must keep up with rapidly advancing and exciting changes in imaging sciences
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- A strong understanding of math, science and computer technology
- Detail oriented
- Ability to make independent decisions
Education requirements
- 2-Year Academic Degree
- Certification Required
Classes & clinicals
- Cuyahoga Community College
- Lorain County Community College
Salary Range
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the average salary for sonographers is approximately between $72,950 - $75,880 (Occupational Outlook Handbook, May 2017).
Learn More
- Meet a Professional Sonographer: Amy
- Explore the Sonography programs Cleveland Clinic is affiliated with.
- Visit the Cleveland Clinic School of Diagnostic Imaging webpage and the Mercy School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography webpage.