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If you’re looking to become an ultrasound tech in Washington State, you’ll need to complete an accredited training program and pass the required exams. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.
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Introduction
If you want to become an ultrasound tech in Washington State, there are a few things you need to know. The field of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) is regulated by the state, and you must have a valid license to practice. Here’s what you need to do to get started.
First, you’ll need to have completed an accredited DMS program. These programs are typically two-year associate’s degree programs, although some may be four-year Bachelor’s degree programs. You can find a list of accredited programs on the Washington State Department of Health website.
Once you’ve completed your accredited DMS program, you’ll need to pass the national board exam administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). After passing the exam, you’ll be eligible to apply for state licensure.
To complete the licensure process, you’ll need to submit an application to the Washington State Department of Health along with the appropriate fee. Once your application has been processed and approved, you’ll be issued a license that will allow you to practice Ultrasound Technology in Washington State.
What Does an Ultrasound Technician Do?
An ultrasound technician, also called a diagnostic medical sonographer, is a medical professional who uses special equipment to create images of the inside of the human body. These images are then used by physicians to diagnose and treat patients.
Ultrasound technicians typically work in hospitals, clinics or private offices. They may also work in research facilities or be employed by companies that manufacture ultrasound equipment.
In order to become an ultrasound technician in Washington State, you must first complete an accredited training program. Programs typically take two years to complete and result in an associate’s degree or a certificate.
Once you have completed a training program, you must then pass the national examination administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Upon passing this exam, you will be credentialed as a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS).
some states also require ultrasound technicians to be licensed. In Washington State, licensure is not currently required. However, this may change in the future and it is advisable to check with the state licensing board periodically to ensure that you are meeting all requirements for practice.
Once you have completed your training and passed the national examination, you will be able to find employment as an ultrasound technician in Washington State.
The Steps to Become an Ultrasound Technician in Washington State
In order to become an ultrasound technician in Washington state, you must complete an accredited training program and pass a state-recognized exam. You can find accredited training programs at many community colleges and technical schools. Once you have completed your training, you will need to pass the state exam in order to earn your license.
Step One: Complete an accredited education program
To become an ultrasound technician in Washington State, you must first complete an accredited education program. There are many accredited schools across the state that offer both two-year and four-year degree programs in diagnostic medical sonography. During your coursework, you will take classes in human anatomy, physiology, and abdomen and obstetric ultrasound. You will also complete clinical rotations, which will give you the opportunity to gain real-world experience working with patients.
Step Two: Pass the ARDMS Spi Exam
After you have completed your educational program, you will need to pass the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) Specialty Imaging (SI) examination before you can obtain your license. The SI examination is a computer-based exam that consists of two parts: a general physics section and a specialized ultrasound section. You will need to achieve a passing score on both sections of the exam in order to obtain your license.
Step Three: Apply for Your License
Once you have passed the ARDMS SI examination, you can apply for your license through the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). The DOH will conduct a background check and verify that you have met all of the requirements for licensure. Once your application has been processed, you will be issued a license that is valid for two years.
Step Four: Renew Your License
Every two years, you will need to renew your license by submitting a renewal application to the DOH. Along with your renewal application, you will need to submit proof that you have completed at least 24 hours of continuing medical education (CME) credits during the past two years. Once your renewal application has been processed, you will be issued a new license that is valid for another two years.
Step Two: Obtain certification
In the state of Washington, there are two main ways to become a certified ultrasound technician: by completing an accredited program or by passing an exam administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). If you choose to complete an accredited program, you will need to graduate from an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree program with a focus in diagnostic medical sonography. Once you have obtained your degree, you will then be eligible to take the certification exam administered by the ARDMS.
If you choose to take the certification exam without completing an accredited program, you will still need to meet certain eligibility requirements set forth by the ARDMS. These requirements include completing a prescribed number of clinical hours as well as passing a physics and medical ethics exam. Once you have met all of the eligibility requirements, you will then be able to register for and take the certification exam.
Step Three: Obtain licensure
To work as an ultrasound tech in Washington State, you must obtain licensure from the state’s Department of Health. The department offers two types of licenses: a general license, which allows you to work in any diagnostic imaging modality, and a limited license, which allows you to work only in ultrasound.
The process for obtaining a license is as follows:
1. Complete an accredited diagnostic imaging education program. The program must be approved by the Washington State Board of Radiologic Examiners.
2. Pass the National Board of Certification Exam for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (DMS).
3. Pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for ultrasound technicians.
4. Submit an application to the Department of Health, along with the appropriate fees. You will also need to submit official transcripts from your education program and proof of your certification exams.
What are the Job Prospects for Ultrasound Techs in Washington State?
The job outlook for ultrasound techs in Washington State is good. The state is projected to see an 18% growth in employment for ultrasound techs between 2016 and 2026, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. There will be an estimated 1,170 jobs available in Washington State for ultrasound techs during that time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you need to have an associate’s degree in order to qualify for the licensure examinations in Washington State. There are a number of good schools that offer this degree, and many of them have locations throughout the state. Once you have completed your degree, you will need to take and pass the national certification examinations. After that, you can apply for your state license and begin working as an ultrasound technician in Washington State.
