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Alabama Department of Labor

Labor Market Information Division
SOC: 29-2032 Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Produce ultrasonic recordings of internal organs for use by physicians.
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Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
OJT: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Tasks: Observe screen during scan to ensure that image produced is satisfactory for diagnostic purposes, making adjustments to equipment as required. Observe and care for patients throughout examinations to ensure their safety and comfort. Provide sonogram and oral or written summary of technical findings to physician for use in medical diagnosis. Select appropriate equipment settings and adjust patient positions to obtain the best sites and angles. Operate ultrasound equipment to produce and record images of the motion, shape, and composition of blood, organs, tissues, or bodily masses, such as fluid accumulations. Decide which images to include, looking for differences between healthy and pathological areas. Prepare patient for exam by explaining procedure, transferring patient to ultrasound table, scrubbing skin and applying gel, and positioning patient properly. Determine whether scope of exam should be extended, based on findings. Obtain and record accurate patient history, including prior test results or information from physical examinations. Maintain records that include patient information, sonographs and interpretations, files of correspondence, publications and regulations, or quality assurance records, such as pathology, biopsy, or post-operative reports. Record and store suitable images, using camera unit connected to the ultrasound equipment. Coordinate work with physicians or other healthcare team members, including providing assistance during invasive procedures. Clean, check, and maintain sonographic equipment, submitting maintenance requests or performing minor repairs as necessary.
License: License not required.
Outlook: Very Good
Alabama Employment Outlook
Alabama Wage Data
Hourly Wage   Annual Wage
Entry $20.17   Entry $41,959.00
Mean $27.38   Mean $56,957.00
Experience $30.99 Experience $64,456.00

The data is based on the May 2017 Occupation Employment Survey employment and wage estimate file. The wages have been aged using the most current ECI factors reflecting wages as of June 2018.

Alabama Projections
Estimated Employment 2016Projected Employment 2026Annual Average OpeningsAnnual Growth Rate
1,1501,380901.83
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Occupational Videos
29-2032.00 Diagnostic Medical Sonographers