2 answers
Noel
Student
Clovis, New Mexico
5
Questions
Asked
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When trying to be a traveling ultrasound tech is there different steps in school I have to take than being a non traveling one?
With the schooling am I going to have to go through classes that prepare you for that or do you just go straight to it?
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2 answers
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Becoming a traveling ultrasound technician, often referred to as a travel ultrasound tech or sonographer, typically follows a similar educational path as becoming a non-traveling one. Here are the steps to become an ultrasound technician, whether you plan to work in a specific location or as a traveling tech:
1. **Education:** Start by completing the necessary educational requirements. Most ultrasound technicians earn either an Associate's Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography or a Bachelor's Degree in Sonography. These programs include coursework in anatomy, physiology, patient care, and ultrasound technology.
2. **Clinical Training:** In addition to classroom instruction, you'll need to complete clinical training. This involves hands-on experience in medical settings, where you'll work under the supervision of experienced sonographers. Clinical training is a crucial part of your education and prepares you for real-world patient care.
3. **Certification:** While certification is not always mandatory, many employers prefer or require it. The most recognized certification for ultrasound technicians is the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) credential, which is offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). To become certified, you'll need to pass the RDMS exam, which tests your knowledge and skills in various ultrasound specialties.
4. **Licensing:** Some states may require licensure for ultrasound technicians. Be sure to check the specific licensing requirements in the state where you plan to work, as they can vary.
5. **Specialization:** Consider specializing in a particular area of sonography, such as obstetrics, vascular, or cardiac sonography, if you have a specific interest. Specialization can enhance your job prospects and earning potential.
6. **Experience:** Gain experience as an ultrasound technician in a medical facility or hospital. Most employers prefer candidates with some level of experience, even for entry-level positions.
7. **Travel Assignments:** If you wish to become a traveling ultrasound tech, you can pursue this path after gaining some experience as a stationary sonographer. Travel assignments often require a minimum of one to two years of experience, depending on the employer.
8. **Agency Registration:** Many traveling ultrasound techs work through staffing agencies specializing in healthcare placements. You'll need to register with these agencies, submit your credentials, and express your preferences for assignment locations and durations.
9. **Flexibility and Mobility:** Being a traveling ultrasound tech requires adaptability, as you'll work in various healthcare facilities and locations. You must be open to relocation and temporary assignments.
In summary, the primary educational and certification requirements for becoming a traveling ultrasound tech are the same as for a non-traveling sonographer. The main difference is that traveling techs gain experience and credentials before embarking on assignments in different locations. The ability to work in diverse healthcare settings and adapt to changing environments is essential for success in this career path.
1. **Education:** Start by completing the necessary educational requirements. Most ultrasound technicians earn either an Associate's Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography or a Bachelor's Degree in Sonography. These programs include coursework in anatomy, physiology, patient care, and ultrasound technology.
2. **Clinical Training:** In addition to classroom instruction, you'll need to complete clinical training. This involves hands-on experience in medical settings, where you'll work under the supervision of experienced sonographers. Clinical training is a crucial part of your education and prepares you for real-world patient care.
3. **Certification:** While certification is not always mandatory, many employers prefer or require it. The most recognized certification for ultrasound technicians is the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) credential, which is offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). To become certified, you'll need to pass the RDMS exam, which tests your knowledge and skills in various ultrasound specialties.
4. **Licensing:** Some states may require licensure for ultrasound technicians. Be sure to check the specific licensing requirements in the state where you plan to work, as they can vary.
5. **Specialization:** Consider specializing in a particular area of sonography, such as obstetrics, vascular, or cardiac sonography, if you have a specific interest. Specialization can enhance your job prospects and earning potential.
6. **Experience:** Gain experience as an ultrasound technician in a medical facility or hospital. Most employers prefer candidates with some level of experience, even for entry-level positions.
7. **Travel Assignments:** If you wish to become a traveling ultrasound tech, you can pursue this path after gaining some experience as a stationary sonographer. Travel assignments often require a minimum of one to two years of experience, depending on the employer.
8. **Agency Registration:** Many traveling ultrasound techs work through staffing agencies specializing in healthcare placements. You'll need to register with these agencies, submit your credentials, and express your preferences for assignment locations and durations.
9. **Flexibility and Mobility:** Being a traveling ultrasound tech requires adaptability, as you'll work in various healthcare facilities and locations. You must be open to relocation and temporary assignments.
In summary, the primary educational and certification requirements for becoming a traveling ultrasound tech are the same as for a non-traveling sonographer. The main difference is that traveling techs gain experience and credentials before embarking on assignments in different locations. The ability to work in diverse healthcare settings and adapt to changing environments is essential for success in this career path.
Thank you so much! I really do appreciate your guidance and support with answering my questions! This was a very in-depth response that answer all of my questions!
Noel
Niha D
Physical Therapist
60
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Niha’s Answer
I am not an ultrasound tech but I am a travelling physical therapist! To my understanding, traveling is a choice after your graduate. Schooling stays the same, but if you have internships/clinicals, I would recommend getting experience in as many setting and populations as you can so feel more comfortable going to as many different clinics as are available to you!
Thank you! I will definitely put this advice to use soon!
Noel