Tag: sonography

“Ultrasound has expanded medical imaging well beyond the “traditional” radiology setting – a combination of portability, low cost and ease of use makes ultrasound imaging an indispensable tool for radiologists as well as for other medical professionals who need to obtain imaging diagnosis or guide a therapeutic intervention quickly and efficiently.” (Klibanov, Alexander L. PhD; Hossack, John A. PhD).

As ultrasound usage continues to grow, utilizing reporting software for general ultrasound offers many advantages that streamline and enhance workflows for radiologists and sonographers. Here are some of the advantages of implementing a structured ultrasound reporting system with AS Software’s advanced integration capabilities.

Electronic Reporting:  No More Paper Worksheets

Traditional general ultrasound workflows often require sonographers to manually record ultrasound information and measurements on paper worksheets. Then the radiologist must dictate the entire report, including the measurements. This manual data entry can be time-consuming, lack standardization, and increase the risk of errors. 

With reporting software for general ultrasound, this process is replaced with electronic reporting and digital worksheets. Sonographers can automatically input their findings into the system, eliminating the need for paper worksheets altogether.

Automation: Streamlining the Workflow

By seamlessly transferring data and automating report creation, integrated ultrasound reporting software allows sonographers to create reports faster. It also allows radiologists to focus more on their clinical assessments, without disrupting their workflows or requiring them to navigate multiple systems.

For example, a well-designed ultrasound reporting system can create clinical protocols tailored to specific findings. If a sonographer identifies a particular anomaly, the system can automatically generate impressions and recommendations for follow-up procedures. This level of automation not only saves time but also ensures consistency in reporting, benefiting both patients and healthcare providers.

Interconnectivity: Seamless, Secure Integration with Existing Systems

Modern ultrasound reporting systems can integrate seamlessly with existing tools and technology for a closed-loop workflow.

For example, AS Software integrates with speech recognition tools, e.g. PowerScribe, Dragon, etc., allowing radiologists to dictate their findings directly into a predefined format, ultimately saving time and improving the efficiency of the reporting process.

Reports generated by the ultrasound reporting system also integrate with the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) and are sent back to the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system, ensuring that patient data is readily available for reference and review, and creating effective charge capture.

Web Access: Anywhere, Anytime

Unlike traditional setups that require users to be physically present at specific workstations, web-based systems like AS Software allow for greater flexibility. Sonographers and radiologists can access the system from any computer with internet connectivity.

Whether it’s inputting data, reviewing reports, or dictating findings, users can efficiently and remotely complete work to save time and increase flexibility and efficiency by leveraging reporting software for general ultrasound workflows.

In addition to saving time and effort, these general ultrasound reporting efficiencies can:

  • Reduce redundant tasks.
  • Increase revenue capture.
  • Improve accuracy.
  • Provide data-mining, analytics, and querying capabilities for research, accreditation, and compliance.

Embracing ultrasound reporting for general ultrasound workflows is more than just a technological upgrade — it’s a strategic move that can enhance patient care, reduce errors, and ensure that healthcare professionals can make informed decisions with ease.

With AS Software’s ultrasound reporting software, general ultrasound workflows are becoming more seamless, automated, and efficient than ever before.  To learn more about the advantages of ultrasound reporting software, schedule a demo.

Derek DellaVecchia, RDMS, RDCS, RVT, RMSR   

Derek has experience in both shared services and hospital settings. He received Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) board registries in abdomen, vascular, OB/GYN, and adult echocardiography specialties and was able to work in departmental head positions in his career. He currently serves on the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) Continuing Medical Education (CME) board review committee and is a Senior Account Executive at AS Software.

> Learn more about Derek

While very rewarding, diagnostic medical sonography can be a demanding career. With varied and long hours, time spent on your feet each day, and patients that can be highly anxious – there are many stressors to navigate. 

When the number of completed scans expected increases, and there is too little time to spend with patients, sonographers can experience chronic stress that, when unrelieved and unmitigated, causes career burnout. This can be difficult to overcome and affect the quality of patient care provided. 

“Decreasing burnout by decreasing the number of chronic stressors in the workplace should   improve the quality of scanning examinations, increase the quality of patient care, improve employee satisfaction, restore employee commitment and professional values, and decrease absenteeism and turnover.” (Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography) 

We’ve compiled these tips and advice from teachers, sonographers, and industry influencers to help sonographers, both new and experienced, remain confident and focused every day and for each ultrasound. Read on for tips for sonographers:

Communicate Effectively 

Each interaction you have matters, and everyone in the medical field needs to have good communication skills.  

Patients experience a range of emotions, and it can be difficult to navigate questions and anxiety regarding their exam. Talking points can be worked into the protocols within your department, such as explaining to an expectant mother that you need to perform your study and measurements and then you will show her the baby. By setting expectations for the scan up front and practicing how to communicate effectively and while maintaining composure and positivity, you will have a better understanding of how to handle each situation with effective boundaries and support. 

As a sonographer, you should be able to communicate calmly and clearly with your patients, while also communicating concisely and professionally with your peers, teammates, and physicians. Practice being the best communicator you can be, and make sure to be fully present and engaged while showing empathy for your patients.  

The better your communications skills become, the more success and fulfillment you’ll find in your daily interactions. 

Know Your Technology 

At each ultrasound appointment you have that one opportunity to get the best images you can. You need to know your technology and knobology backwards and forwards, so you make the most of your time to observe and capture the images you need.  

If you find yourself having issues or trouble with any of the systems you use, make sure to advocate for yourself and leverage your technology provider’s resources to solve issues swiftly and effectively.  If you feel at any time that you need more technical support or are experiencing issues, don’t hesitate to ask for the training and assistance that will help you gain more confidence in your technology. 

The more you know and trust your technology, the more you can confidently focus on patient care. 

Practice Self-Care and Work-Life Balance 

To show up fully at your workplace, with confidence, starts with how you take care of yourself throughout your daily routine. Sonography can be hectic, with busy days and lots of hours on your feet. Make time to check in with yourself so you can be prepared for the responsibilities of each day: 

  • Seek support to vent your challenges and frustrations, such as a support group or the buddy system.  
  • Get as much rest as you can. Practice giving your body a break, even for short periods of time…don’t let that pumpkin spice latte go cold! 
  • Invest in your emotional well-being. Addressing your mental health can go a long way in alleviating stress. 
  • Find a mentor. A trusted advisor can help guide you through important career decisions  

The better you take care of yourself, the better you can care for your patients. 

Always Keep Learning 

As a sonographer, you’re never done learning – even after you graduate. Not only is medicine constantly evolving, but medical imaging is advancing very fast as well. New and upgraded equipment, better techniques, and innovative best practices come each year.   

There is always room to grow, and you can stay ahead of the curve and remain confident in your knowledge and abilities by immersing yourself in consistent and dedicated learning. 

There are many professional organizations and resources available, such as this helpful list from the American Registry from Diagnostic Medical Sonography. 

Remain committed to your continuing education, and you’ll find continued success as a knowledgeable, prepared sonographer. 

To learn how the right software can help sonographers work more efficiently, schedule a demo.

More resources for sonographers:

Sonographers’ Wellness Forum On-Demand

Sonographer Pain and WRMSDs

7 Expert Tips from the Sonographers’ Wellness Forum