As the field of healthcare continues to grow and evolve, there are a wide variety of career paths to choose from. Two popular options are becoming a diagnostic medical sonographer or an electrocardiogram (EKG) technician. Both of these careers involve the use of medical imaging technology, but there are some important differences between them. In this blog post, we will explore the roles and responsibilities of a diagnostic medical sonographer and an EKG technician, as well as the education and training required for each. We will also discuss the career outlook and salary potential for both professions.

What is a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer and EKG?

A diagnostic medical sonographer is a healthcare professional who uses ultrasound technology to create images of the internal structures of a patient's body. These images are used by physicians to diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Sonographers work closely with patients, positioning them and applying gel to the skin to ensure clear images. They then use a transducer to emit sound waves and capture the echoes as they bounce back, creating a real-time image on a computer screen.

On the other hand, an EKG technician is a healthcare professional who specializes in performing electrocardiograms, also known as EKGs or ECGs. An EKG is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart and can help diagnose various heart conditions. EKG technicians apply electrodes to a patient's chest, arms, and legs to record the heart's electrical signals. They then interpret the results and provide them to physicians for further evaluation.

Difference between a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer and EKG

While both diagnostic medical sonographers and EKG technicians work with medical imaging technology, there are several key differences between the two professions:

1. Focus of Imaging: Diagnostic medical sonographers primarily use ultrasound technology to create images of internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. They are trained to interpret these images and identify any abnormalities. EKG technicians, on the other hand, focus specifically on the electrical activity of the heart and use EKG machines to record and analyze the heart's rhythms.

2. Patient Population: Diagnostic medical sonographers work with a wide range of patients, including infants, children, adults, and the elderly. They may perform imaging scans on various parts of the body, depending on the patient's condition. EKG technicians primarily work with adult patients, as heart conditions are more common in this population.

3. Scope of Practice: Diagnostic medical sonographers have a broader scope of practice compared to EKG technicians. They may specialize in a specific area, such as obstetrics and gynecology, abdominal imaging, or cardiovascular imaging. EKG technicians focus specifically on performing EKGs and may not have as much variety in their day-to-day tasks.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer vs EKG: Job Description

The job description of a diagnostic medical sonographer and an EKG technician can vary significantly. Here are some key responsibilities for each profession:

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer:

• Prepare patients for imaging procedures, explaining the process and answering any questions they may have.
• Position patients and equipment to obtain the best possible images.
• Apply gel to the patient's skin and use a transducer to emit sound waves and capture the echoes.
• Analyze the images and provide preliminary findings to physicians.
• Maintain and operate ultrasound equipment, ensuring it is in good working condition.
• Keep patient records and maintain patient confidentiality.

EKG Technician:

• Prepare patients for EKG procedures, ensuring they are comfortable and relaxed.
• Apply electrodes to the patient's chest, arms, and legs to record the heart's electrical signals.
• Operate EKG machines and interpret the results.
• Identify any abnormal heart rhythms or patterns and notify physicians.
• Maintain and clean EKG equipment to ensure accuracy and safety.
• Maintain patient records and adhere to privacy regulations.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer vs EKG: Education and Training

The educational requirements for becoming a diagnostic medical sonographer or an EKG technician are different. Here is an overview of the typical education and training paths for each profession:

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer:

• Education: Most diagnostic medical sonographers complete an associate's degree program in diagnostic medical sonography. These programs typically take 2-3 years to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical training.
• Certification: While certification is not required in all states, many employers prefer to hire sonographers who are certified by a professional organization such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).
• Continuing Education: Sonographers must stay up-to-date with advances in technology and techniques and may be required to complete continuing education courses to maintain their certification.

EKG Technician:

• Education: The education requirements for EKG technicians vary, but most employers prefer candidates who have completed a postsecondary training program in cardiovascular technology or a related field. These programs typically take 6 months to 1 year to complete and include both classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience.
• Certification: While certification is not always required, many EKG technicians choose to become certified through organizations such as the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).
• Continuing Education: EKG technicians may be required to complete continuing education courses to maintain their certification and stay current with advancements in the field.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer vs EKG: Career Outlook and Salary

The career outlook and salary potential for diagnostic medical sonographers and EKG technicians can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and specialization. Here is an overview of the career outlook and salary ranges for each profession:

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer:

• Career Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow 19 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for medical imaging services as the population ages.
• Salary: The median annual wage for diagnostic medical sonographers was $75,920 in May 2020, according to the BLS. The highest 10 percent earned more than $105,340, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $53,790.

EKG Technician:

• Career Outlook: The career outlook for EKG technicians is also positive, with the BLS projecting a 5 percent growth in employment from 2020 to 2030. This growth is driven by an aging population and increased demand for cardiovascular testing.
• Salary: The median annual wage for cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including EKG technicians, was $59,410 in May 2020, according to the BLS. The highest 10 percent earned more than $93,100, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $32,280.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career in healthcare can be both rewarding and challenging. Both diagnostic medical sonographers and EKG technicians play important roles in diagnosing and monitoring medical conditions, but they have different areas of focus and responsibilities. It is important to carefully consider your interests, strengths, and career goals when deciding which path to pursue. Whether you choose to become a diagnostic medical sonographer or an EKG technician, both professions offer opportunities for personal and professional growth, as well as the chance to make a positive impact on patients' lives.

Dreambound's programs are available in different locations. Explore the following blogs for comprehensive details on these two vocations, including their requirements and guidelines on joining:

• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Minnesota
• EKG in Minnesota
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer classes near you
• EKG classes near you