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Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Overview
Diagnostic Medical Sonography is one of the most highly developed and complex diagnostic
imaging modalities of the medical field. The field is rapidly changing and growing
and promises to remain an important imaging technique which contributes to improved
patient care. Diagnostic Medical Sonography involves the use of low intensity, high
frequency acoustical waves to provide diagnostic information about human anatomy and
pathology. Ultrasound is one of the more operator dependent examinations in diagnostic
imagery. The diagnostic medical sonographer, or person who creates ultrasound images
with sophisticated instrumentation, has a very important role in the process of providing
a patient an optimal Diagnostic Medical Sonography exam. To create images which represent
the actual anatomy and pathology for interpretation by a physician, the sonographer
must use considerable judgment and have a broad base of knowledge in acoustical wave
behavior and instrument variables. The sonographer must have a complete understanding
of multiplanar cross-sectional anatomy. The creation of an ultrasound image demands
that the sonographer be responsible and conscientious. The sonographer must be able
to communicate with the patient, other employees, and physicians who are responsible
for interpretation of ultrasound exams and provide the physician with pertinent clinical
information from the patient's chart. He/She must be responsible for the immediate
safety and comfort of patients while they are receiving the ultrasound exam.
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program at Delgado Community College is a sixteen (16) month accredited program of formal and practical education in diagnostic medical sonography. Upon successful completion, students will be eligible to take the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography exams in Sonographic Principles & Instrumentation, Obstetrics-Gynecology, and Abdomen. The program is academically based with practical experience offered at numerous affiliate hospitals located in the New Orleans area. Students will receive Delgado Community College credits for all successfully completed didactic and practical training.
Classes are to start in the Fall semester (August) and extend through the following December. The deadline for receipt of completed applications, transcripts*, and letters of recommendation is May 1st of each year. All applications will be reviewed and evaluated by the Ultrasound Admissions Committee. Those candidates who are not accepted will be advised accordingly by letter.
*Transcripts for courses taken in the current spring semester at schools other than Delgado should be submitted as soon as available.
PLEASE NOTE: The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is atypical with regard to semester length. Once a student is accepted into the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program, classes begin earlier and last longer than what is printed on the class schedule and in the College Catalog Calendar. This is necessary to fulfill program requirements.
Official Program Description in the College Catalog
Accreditation
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Post-Associate Certificate program is accredited by:
The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
1361 Park Street, Clearwater, FL 33756
Phone: (727) 210-2350
Website: www.caahep.org.
This accreditation allows program graduates to apply for the certification examination administered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)
Program Mission
The mission of the Program is to provide students with a comprehensive education in diagnostic medical sonography. The Program includes sufficient formal and practical education to successfully prepare the student to meet the challenge and high ideals offered by the diagnostic medical ultrasound profession. The Program attempts to instill an effective influence of character and lifelong learning.
Program Effectiveness Data (2014-2018)
Job Placement and Program Completion Rates
| Year | Job Placement Rate | Program Completion Rate |
|---|---|---|
|
2017-2018 |
100% |
92% (11/12) |
|
2016-2017 |
100% |
83% (10/12) |
|
2015-2016 |
100% |
92% (11/12) |
|
2014-2015 |
92% |
100% (12/12) |
|
2013-2014 |
100% |
92% (11/12) |
|
5 Year Average |
98.4% |
91.8% |
ARDMS Exam Pass Rate
| Year | SPI (PHYSICS & INSTRUMENTATION) | ABDOMEN | OB/GYN |
|---|---|---|---|
|
2017-2018 |
81.8% |
100% |
90% |
|
2016-2017 |
100% |
100% |
100% |
|
2015-2016 |
100% |
100% |
100% |
|
2014-2015 |
100% |
100% |
100% |
|
2013-2014 |
91% |
90% |
100% |
|
5 Year Average |
94.5% |
98% |
98% |
Employment Opportunities
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers are employed in a variety of settings:
- Hospitals
- Physicians Offices
- Clinics
- Public Health Facilities
- Laboratories
- Medical Sonography Equipment Sales
See U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook for additional information: Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.