REFLECTION OF A TRAINEE SONOGRAPHER

Reflecting on my experience as a trainee sonographer in Obstetric and Gynaecology ultrasound, I can safely say it was a rewarding yet challenging experience. Along with undertaking the academic workload of a PG cert, you are also learning an entirely new skill in the role of scanning patients. This was most notable when learning to scan obstetric patients, which requires a lot of patience, both when performing the scan and communicating with patients. 

Learning to perform any scan in obstetrics requires a great deal of concentration and effort. This was probably the most challenging aspect of the course, as it is both mentally and physically tiring. This however was an area where I learnt the most from sonographers, who were incredibly patient and generous with their time by demonstrating to me the skills required for each scan and improving my knowledge of pathology. 

In terms of gynaecology ultrasound, a lot of care and tact is also involved when communicating with patients in order to understand the extent of their clinical issues, which can then provide more information when undertaking the scan. It is of utmost importance to also decipher their level of understanding of the examination and gaining patient consent, which is imperative when performing transvaginal scans. This was an area that I found difficult at the beginning of my training, which was alleviated with time through observing how the sonographers dealt with patients and learning from their approaches.

With regard the academic side of the course, a lot of organisation is required to avoid becoming totally overwhelmed with the level of coursework to be undertaken whilst working full time. Case studies, written examinations, assessments in the form of viva’s and a clinical portfolio make up the academia required for all modules, which also include Physics and Developing Professional Skills in Ultrasound modules, along with the Obstetrics and Gynaecology modules. Having a diary to plan out due dates in tandem with my clinical schedule was helpful, along with the support from fellow students’ and colleagues with advice on the assignments. The support and guidance from the sonographers was particularly most beneficial with regard preparing case study posts, which are extremely daunting at the beginning of your training. The challenges of preparing and submitting these assignments was alleviated greatly by the support of the sonographers who were also past students, whose advice and help I am incredibly appreciative of.

Overall, my experience as a trainee sonographer was a positive experience, and whilst there is undoubtedly a whole year of work (with very little time for anything else), anything worth doing is never easy, and I am grateful for the opportunity I had to progress in my profession