Echocardiography involves the use of ultrasound technology to assess the structure and condition of a person’s heart and blood vessels. It maps the structure of the heart and blood vessels and provides elaborate information about the efficiency of functioning of the cardiovascular system. Echocardiography or cardiac sonography is now being used more extensively in place of older radiology studies as it is a safer, cost-effective and accurate diagnostic imaging procedure. An Electrocardiographer (also known as cardiac sonographer) receives specialized training cardiac ultrasound technology.

There are two degree programs available to students who wish to pursue a career in echocardiography. An Associate of Applied Science in Echocardiography and a Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences with specialization in echocardiography. Each program introduces the science of sonographic imaging and medical applications of an electrocardiograph (EKG) machine.

Associate of Applied Science in Echocardiography

As mentioned, echocardiography is a discipline that utilizes electrocardiograph machines and sonographic imaging to assess the overall heart health of a patient. Electro cardiographers work closely with cardiologists and vascular surgeons in various health care settings. While enrolled in an associate’s degree program, a student will receive basic training in how to properly administer an electrocardiograph exam.

Coursework covers the positioning of electrodes on the patient’s body as well as interpretation of an EKG reading. Students also learn about ultrasound technology, which is used by electro cardiographers to take images of a patient’s heart. Sonographic images are helpful in assessing heart damage, heart disease and pumping capacity. Instruction is also provided on conducting a general sonographic image examination of a patient.

Some AAS in Echocardiography degree programs require an initial year of general study. This first year is devoted to completion of general education courses; the second and third years of enrollment focus on courses in echocardiography. Some possible classes include:

• Elementary physics
• Concepts of cardiovascular examination
• Adult echocardiography
• Ultrasound physics
• Pathology and echocardiographic evaluation
• Doppler physics
• Applications of vascular technology
• Anatomy and physiology

Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences

The discipline of imaging sciences encompasses many different fields, such as diagnostic medical sonography, radiographic science and echocardiography. Students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in imaging sciences take echocardiography as a specialized area of study. Training is provided on how to properly conduct an electrocardiograph exam as well as sonographic imaging of the heart and related blood vessels. Students learn how to combine these two procedures to assess the overall heart health of a patient. Anomalies in EKG printouts and sonographic images are covered as well as advanced echo technology methods, such as the use of a holter monitor and stress testing.

Freshman applicants must meet the minimum education requirements for high school subject areas. In addition, scores must be submitted for either the SAT or ACT exam. Some universities may request letters of recommendation, an interview and a professional writing sample. Many applicants transfer from 2-year programs and have the proper educational requirements needed to enroll in a bachelor’s degree program.

Classes cover all aspects of echocardiography. Some courses also require completion of a laboratory component, through which students gain hands-on experience. Possible classes include:

• Echocardiography instrument quality assurance
• Physics of echocardiography
• Patient care techniques
• Congenital heart disease echo evaluation
• Neonatal care skills
• Doppler echocardiography
• 2-D echocardiograms
• Intensive care echocardiography

Online echocardiography programs

Online echocardiography education programs integrate accepted principles of the subject with cutting edge technology to develop quality leadership in their students through accredited programs of study. For those of you interested in pursuing echocardiography education online, there are several schools available.

Finding the right school

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