Question

The sonographer should follow all of the following recommendations except?

1) Use mild transducer pressure when imaging superficial structures.
2) Grip the transducer tightly when imaging abdominal structures.
3) Avoid the temptation to be "image-driven," sacrificing your body for a "pretty picture" that does not affect the diagnosis.
4) Maintain a firm grip on the transducer, using multiple angulations to obtain the best possible image.

Answer 1

The recommendation for sonographers not to follow is to grip the transducer tightly when imaging abdominal structures. Instead, they should apply appropriate pressure and maintain a comfortable grip while avoiding physical strain.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the recommendations for sonographers, the one that should not be followed is grip the transducer tightly when imaging abdominal structures. This is because excessive pressure can cause discomfort for the patient and may also distort the tissue being imaged, leading to suboptimal or inaccurate images. Instead, sonographers should use appropriate pressure, maintain a comfortable grip, and utilize different angles to capture clear images while also taking care to avoid physical strain on their own body. Sustained high pressure is not necessary and can be counterproductive.

When it comes to ultrasonography, which is a technology dependent on the operator's skill and technique, using a firm but gentle approach to handle the transducer is essential. In addition, a sonographer should strive to avoid being image-driven to the point of sacrificing their own body's well-being for an improved image when it does not affect the diagnostic outcome, thereby preventing work-related musculoskeletal injuries.