General Purpose and Audience
Medical Sonographers not only image the body with sound waves, but also create a legal document of findings in official reports to the radiologists, perinatologists, vascular surgeons, or whoever may be interpreting their images. Sonographers document their findings using terminology that is not only pertinent to the images using sonographic terminology, but pertinent to the overall processes and pathophysiology of the organs, blood vessels, muscles, etc. visualized in the images. Sonographers must be knowledgeable of and be able to express findings in proper medical terminology and jargon that is acceptable to the physician. All writing must be supported by findings shown clearly in their images. Audiences include students, educators, physicians, patients, and staff and administrators at clinics and hospitals.
Types of Writing
Sonography reports
Research essays
Sonography worksheets
Reflective pieces and journal entries
Interviews
PowerPoint presentations
Case studies
Types of Evidence
Quantitative (measurable data)
Patient charts/notes
Case studies
Scholarly journals
Writing Conventions
Writing should be specific and accurate.
Writers need to be objective and maintain confidentiality.
Paraphrases are more often used rather than directly quoting.
Specific medical terminology should be used when writing reports.
Terms / Jargon / Acronyms
JRCDMS: Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
HIPAA: Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act
PACS: Picture Archiving and Communication System
ARDMS: American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography
ARRT: The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
Documentation Style
APA (American Psychological Association)
Sources Consulted
Ashley Tyson, Medical Sonography Program, South Piedmont Community College (2018). Edited by Calvin Jones, English Instructor, South Piedmont Community College.