Ultrasounds

This past Thursday, January 19th, my Fundamentals of Biomedical Sciences (II) class was visited by Brandi Harnish, a Radiology Technician from the University of South Alabama’s Hospital. Mrs. Harnish is certified for the use of Ultrasound machines, so she came to speak to our class about the new Ultrasound Machine that our program was recently donated. Ultrasounds are an imaging method that uses sound waves to produce images of structures within your body. The images can provide valuable information for diagnosing and directing treatment for a variety of diseases and conditions.Ultrasounds are often used to view cysts, tumors, obstructions or infections within or around your kidneys.

She began by speaking to us about the path she took to becoming a Radiology Technician. She received a 2-year degree from Faulkner State Community College before completing a year-long training program. With this training, she has been able to work as a Radiology Technologist for over ten years.

After a quick how-to lesson, she let our class (carefully) use the ultrasound machine. I actually got to view my fellow classmate’s thyroid! I also volunteered to have my classmates view my liver and kidneys. We attempted to view my IUD, but unfortunately we couldn’t see very well because I did not have a full bladder.

Imaging is a crucial part of diagnosis and treatment of patients. It was fascinating to continue our Radiology Unit with this visit from Mrs. Harnish! I would love to get to learn more about different types of medical imaging.