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Attitudes, Trends, and Standard of Practice for the Sonogra her

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado; University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Campus Box E-197, 4200 East Ninth Avenue, Denver, CO 80262 Wersutte{at}Brown.UHColorado.Edu

Diagnostic medical sonographers have been important members of the health care team for more than 25 years. This longevity notwithstanding, their current role in clinical care remains unclear. The purpose of the following study was to investigate the attitudes and opinions of sonographers in the United States. A random, prospective, cross-sectional study of 200 sonographers who were members of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine was conducted in both 1991 and 1996. This survey was used to evaluate demographics, education, nature of clinical practice, and attitudes regarding sonographic education, standards, practices, regulation, and professional relationships. Sonographers' responses were summarized and analyzed. Approximately 57% and 59% of sonographers surveyed responded to the survey in 1991 and 1996, respectively. Except for respondent age and experience, the demographic information did not change significantly when the two survey periods were compared. Respondents were observed to support "formal" educational programs in sonography, and supported both personal and programmatic certification. Significant variability regarding the reported typical standards of practice were observed. In addition, when attitudes and responses were compared based on the clinical duties of the respondents, significant differences in the frequency of affirmative responses were also found. The traditional model for sonographer scope and nature of practice is no longer valid in all circumstances. Significant latitude is observed regarding sonographer education. In addition, significant diversity was observed regarding institutional standards of practice. These data suggest a dramatic disparity between the perceived role of the sonographer and his traditionally defined role. The role of the sonographer in the usual practice of medicine should be further investigated.

Key Words: advanced practice • allied health • diagnostic imaging • quality of care • sonographer • standard of practice • ultrasonography

Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Vol. 13, No. 5, 228-239 (1997)
DOI: 10.1177/875647939701300502


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