Professional Behavior in Sonographers: A Literature Review of Current Standards in the Profession From an Educator’s Perspective

Abstract

Objective:

Professional behaviors are integral elements in the definition of professionalism. Determining which of these behaviors meet professional standards and how they equate to professionalism in sonographers is critical for educators to prepare students for clinical experiences.

Materials and Methods:

A review of peer-reviewed literature and qualitative extraction explored professional behaviors in sonography. Professional standards published by organizations representing sonographers were also examined for professional behavior standards.

Results:

Two peer-reviewed studies were found that explored professional behaviors in sonographers. The existing professional performance guidelines focused on defining clinical competencies for successful diagnostic medical imaging and used only generalized descriptions of professional expectations related to communication, analytical skills, and ethics.

Conclusion:

Specific professional behaviors have rarely been identified in the existing literature, which limited this data extraction. Qualitative themes associated with professional behaviors in the literature included social conduct, appropriate appearance, and ethical conduct. More research is needed to assist educators in promoting professional behaviors.