echocardiographer

An echocardiographer is a healthcare professional who performs echocardiography, an ultrasound-based imaging technique used to evaluate heart structure and function. Working with ultrasound equipment, an echocardiographer obtains real-time images of the heart, assesses valve motion, chamber sizes, wall thickness, and blood flow, and helps quantify cardiac performance.

Typical duties include performing transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and, when trained, assisting with transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) or stress echocardiography. They acquire, optimize, and interpret images under the supervision of a cardiologist, measure Doppler flows, calculate ejection fraction, and prepare preliminary reports. They ensure patient safety and comfort, monitor during procedures, maintain equipment and quality control, and adhere to established protocols.

Most echocardiographers come from accredited programs in cardiovascular technology or diagnostic medical sonography. Credentialing is commonly obtained through professional bodies such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), with specialties in cardiac sonography. Regional licensure requirements may apply.

Work settings include hospitals, cardiology clinics, outpatient imaging centers, and catheterization laboratories. The role may involve teamwork with physicians, nurses, and technologists and can offer opportunities for specialization and advancement, such as lead technologist or educator. Echocardiographers perform a noninvasive test that provides essential information for diagnosing heart disease, guiding treatment, and monitoring disease progression.