Brief Description

Diagnostic Ultrasound Technology uses energy in the form of ultrasound to diagnose pathology and assess fetal well-being. The Associate of Arts degree in Diag-nostic Ultrasound provides training in ultrasound patient services and related diagnostic techniques. The program offers training in the following specialty tracks: General (Abdomen & OB/GYN); Vascular Technology; and Echocardiography. Students must declare their specialty track of sonography practice at time of applica-tion. The program uses a selective-admissions process, with admissions guidelines published annually. Graduates are eligible to apply to take the American Regis-try of Diagnostic Medical Sonography and the American Registry of Radiologic Technology examination. It is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

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. Sonography can be used to examine many parts of the body, such as the abdomen, breasts, female repro-ductive 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.

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.

Learning Outcomes

Degree recipients should possess the skills and abilities described below:

• Function in the capacity as an entry-level sonographer; acquiring diagnostic ultrasound images of the patient's anatomy to aid the physician in the diagnosis of various pathological conditions
• Act in the best interests of the patient and the institution through the prudent use of safety measures, techniques and equipment to prevent harm to patient, facility or oneself
• Act within the Ultrasonography Scope of Practice as outlined by the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
• Exercise independent judgment and discretion in the technical performance of medical imaging procedures
• Assimilate pertinent clinical information, ultrasound findings and knowledge of normal and abnormal conditions into a cohesive and complete ultrasound examination for interpreting physicians
• Communicate effectively with patients, family members, hospital staff, and the general public, and demonstrate professionalism in all actions and communications

Brief Description

The Breast Ultrasound certificate is a three-quarter certificate program for certified Mammographers wishing to expand their job skills to include breast ultrasound scanning. Satisfactory completion of the program courses partially fulfills the eligibility requirements for the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography certification examination in breast ultrasound.