The Differences Between an LPN and an Ultrasound Technician
An ultrasound technician or sonographer differs from an LPN in many ways. An ultrasound technician is someone who captures images of a patient’s internal structures through the use of ultrasound equipment, while an LPN is a state-licensed individual who provides care to elderly, disabled, injured, terminally ill, or chronically ill patients. sick. LPNs can be found working in a wider range of work settings and also have more tasks than sonographers.
LPN Job Description
The duties and responsibilities of an LPN range from administrative or clerical duties to clinical practice. LPNs collect and record patient history and symptoms, maintain records, and schedule appointments. They also take vital signs, prepare and administer injections, help patients prepare for medical exams, collect test samples, help supervisors perform procedures and lab tests, treat wounds, and provide bedside patient care. and help them with the tasks of daily living. In addition, LPNs offer emotional support to patients and their families. They can be found working in hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, nursing care facilities, schools, and many more.
Education
To become an LPN, a candidate must complete a program, which typically takes about a year to complete. The program is divided into clinical practice and classroom instruction. Clinical practice takes place in a hospital or clinic. Classroom instruction focuses on nursing courses such as anatomy and physiology, nursing fundamentals, psychiatric nursing, nutrition, maternal and child health, and pharmacology.
Salary and promotion
The average salary for an LPN is around $39,000 a year. LPNs have the option to further their career as a Registered Nurse. If that’s what they want, they’ll need to get a nursing degree, an associate’s degree in nursing, or a bachelor’s degree in nursing. All candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to practice as a registered nurse.
Ultrasound Technician Job Description
An ultrasound technician analyzes and interprets diagnostic images taken with ultrasound equipment. Ultrasound technicians provide summaries, either oral or written, of technical findings. They direct the positioning of the patient and explain the ultrasound procedures to the patient. They also perform equipment maintenance and keep records. Ultrasound technicians can be found working in hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, and diagnostic imaging centers.
Education
Most ultrasound technicians have an associate’s degree in medical sonography. Associate degree programs can be completed in two years. For those who want to earn their bachelor’s degree, four-year programs are available. Completing a one-year program to earn a vocational certificate in sonography is the minimum qualification available to those who want to become ultrasound technicians. Course work may include classes in patient care, medical ethics, anatomy, physiology, and basic physics.
Salary and promotion
The average annual salary for ultrasound technicians is around $62,000. They can advance the quest by specializing in more than one area. Specializing in two or more areas will broaden your opportunities. They may become educators, administrators, or researchers with additional education and experience.
What to choose
Being an LPN is just as rewarding as being an ultrasound technician. Deciding which career path to take depends largely on your preferences and your skills and abilities. It is important that you examine each career carefully and learn which one is best for you before making your final decision.