Image of student points at a sonography screen

DMS Things to Know

Essentials details on the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program

Accreditation

This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) on recommendation by the Joint Review Committee on Education Programs in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS). The program at Tacoma Community College is accredited in the general concentration.

CAAHEP – 9355 - 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775; telephone 727-210-2350, fax 727-210-2354, www.caahep.org

JRC-DMS – 6021 University Boulevard, Suite 500, Ellicott City, MD 21043, 443-973-3251, www.jrcdms.org

Licensing

In accordance with U.S. Department of Education Regulation 34 CFR 668.43 (a) (5) (v), educational institutions must provide information related to whether their programs will fulfill educational requirements for specific professional licensure or certification and to inform prospective students whether their degree upon graduation will qualify them to work in the state where they are located. Students who complete the TCC DMS program, and successfully pass the credential exam will meet minimum requirements for practice in every state.

Program Effectiveness Data

PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS DATA (PDF)

Student Capabilities

Physical, mental, and emotional capabilities needed to succeed in the profession of Diagnostic Medical Sonography and while enrolled in the clinical phase of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program.

The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer must possess sufficient strength, motor coordination and manual dexterity to:
1. Work standing on his/her feet 80% of the time.
2. Use both hands, wrists, and shoulders to maintain prolonged arm positions necessary for scanning and perform finite motor skills.
3. Lift up to 50 pounds routinely.
4. Transport, move, and/or lift patients from a wheelchair or stretcher to the examination table or patient bed, and physically assist patients into proper positions for examination.
5. Push, pull, bend and stoop routinely to move and adjust sonographic equipment and perform studies.
6. Use senses (vision, hearing, touch) to adequately view sonograms, including color distinctions; distinguish audible sounds; perform eye/hand coordination skills required in sonographic examinations; and recognize changes in patients’ condition and needs.
7. Work in a semi-darkened room for prolonged periods of time.
8. Be physically capable of carrying out all assigned duties.
The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer must be able to:
1. Communicate effectively, verbally and non-verbally, with patients and other healthcare professionals to explain procedures, give instructions, and give and obtain information.
2. Organize and accurately perform the individual steps in a sonographic procedure in the proper sequence according to established standards.
3. Understand and react quickly to verbal instructions and patient needs.
4. Communicate in and understand the English language
5. Follow directions effectively and work closely with members of the health care community.
6. View and evaluate recorded images for the purpose of identifying proper protocol, procedural sequencing, technical qualities and identification of pathophysiology.
7. Apply problem solving skills to help optimize patient care and produce the best diagnostic information possible.
The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer must be able to:
1. Provide physical and emotional support to the patient during sonographic procedures.
2. Interact compassionately and effectively with the sick and/or injured.
3. Handle stressful situations related to technical and procedural standards and patient care situations.
4. Adapt to changing environments and be able to prioritize tasks.
5. Project an image of professionalism.
6. Demonstrate a high level of compassion for others, a motivation to serve, integrity, and a consciousness of social values.
7. Interact positively with people from all levels of society and all ethnic and religious backgrounds.

Immunization, Background Check and Drug Test Requirements

Students must provide documentation of current immunizations: 2 step TB skin test (PPD), Tdap, HepB - 3 doses and a titer, MMR, Varicella, and flu shot.
Drug Testing: Clinical agencies have to maintain a drug free workplace that promotes a safe and healthy work environment and is in compliance with applicable laws. Therefore, some clinical sites require all students in their facilities complete a drug screen. Additional fees may be incurred by the student.
Background check: Certain conviction history excludes persons from healthcare employment. If you have any prior convictions, even if you believe they may be sealed, please consult with the Program Director for DMS.