Essential Physical Requirements

Students eligible for the DMS program must meet the following minimum standards appropriate to the field of Medical Sonography:

1. Mobility to move freely around the Radiology department and ultrasound imaging room, as well as other areas of the hospital such as surgery and patient rooms. Candidates should be able to freely manipulate machinery in their respective areas.
2. Ability to work standing 70 percent of the time.
3. Ability and manual dexterity to frequently reach and handle equipment for imaging purposes. Should be able to reach up to 6 feet off the floor and lift a minimum of 30 pounds.
4. Ability to frequently transport, lift, and transfer patients from a wheelchair or stretcher, with or without IV poles.
5. Ability to hold an ultrasound transducer and maneuver it by exercising wrist motion and dexterity for up to one hour to complete an ultrasound exam.
6. Possess normal visual and audio acuity. The sonographer must be able to discern small differences between shades of gray in order to acquire and fully interpret an ultrasound image. To interpret color Doppler, a sonographer should be able to distinguish between the colors red, yellow, blue, and green. Hearing should be adequate to communicate verbally with patients and other health care providers. A sonographer should be able to read and comprehend written orders in English.
7. Possess verbal and written skills in order to communicate effectively in English with patients and other health care professionals.