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How to Become an Ultrasound Tech in California is a question that we get a lot. Here’s a complete guide on the steps you’ll need to take.
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Introduction
If you want to become an ultrasound tech in California, there are a few steps you need to follow. First, you’ll need to complete an accredited ultrasound technician program. Next, you’ll need to pass the ARDMS exams. Finally, you’ll need to obtain a California state license. Once you have completed all of these steps, you’ll be on your way to a career in diagnostic medical sonography!
What are the requirements to become an ultrasound tech in California?
You can become an ultrasound tech in California by completing an accredited ultrasound program and passing the ARDMS Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) exam. You will also need to obtain a California state license. In this article, we will discuss the requirements to become an ultrasound tech in California.
Education
In order to become an ultrasound technician in California, you will need to complete an accredited ultrasound tech program. There are many accredited programs available throughout the state, so you should have no problem finding one that meets your needs. Once you have completed your accredited program, you will then need to pass the California state exam in order to become licensed.
Certification
All diagnostic sonographers in California must be certified in order to work. Certification provides confirmation that the sonographer has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the job. In California, certification is offered through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). The ARDMS offers several routes to certification, but all require the completion of an accredited training program.
After completing a training program, candidates must pass two examinations in order to earn certification. The first exam is a general exam, which covers basic concepts in sonography. The second exam is a specialty-specific examination, which tests candidates on their knowledge of a particular area of sonography such as abdomen or obstetrics/gynecology. Candidates must also complete continuing education requirements every year in order to maintain their certification.
Clinical Experience
You will need to have at least one year of full-time clinical experience in order to sit for the Californian examination. This experience must be post-primary completion and under the supervision of a licensed physician. You will also be required to have performed a minimum of 500 diagnostic ultrasound examinations, including a variety of obstetric, abdominal, small parts, Doppler and vascular procedures.
How to become an ultrasound tech in California
Becoming an ultrasound tech in California is not as difficult as one might think. There are a few steps that must be completed in order to be eligible to take the state exam and become licensed. The first step is to complete an accredited ultrasound program. Once you have completed the program, you will then need to pass the state exam.
Complete an accredited educational program
Ultrasound techs in California must complete an accredited educational program before they can obtain certification and become eligible for employment. There are several ways to complete an accredited program, including attending a traditional brick-and-mortar school, completing an online program, or taking classes at a community college.
Brick-and-mortar schools typically offer certificate or diploma programs that can be completed in as little as one year, while online programs may take longer to complete. Community colleges typically offer two-year associate’s degree programs. Most employers prefer to hire ultrasound techs who have at least an associate’s degree
Pass the ARDMS SPI exam
All ultrasound technicians in California must obtain certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). The first step is to pass the ARDMS SPI exam, which assesses your competency in physics and instrumentation. You must achieve a passing score of 70% or higher to progressing onto the next step.
Complete a clinical internship
ultrasound technician, you will need to complete a clinical internship as part of your training. This internship will give you the opportunity to work with patients and learn how to use ultrasound equipment. You will also learn how to take medical histories, perform physical exams, and understand the basic principles of sonography.
Conclusion
The best way to become an ultrasound tech in California is to complete an accredited training program and pass the certification exam administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Alternatively, some techs may choose to become certified through the American College of Radiology (ACR). Those who are already registered and certified in another state may be eligible for reciprocity with California.
