ARDMS Practice Test 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Diagnostic Medical Sonography Success!

Before performing an ultrasound, obtaining informed consent from the patient is a critical step. Informed consent is a process that ensures that the patient is fully aware of what the ultrasound will involve, including its purpose, any risks, and the potential outcomes. This process respects the patient's autonomy and rights, allowing them to make an informed decision about their care.

Informed consent also helps to foster trust in the healthcare process, as patients feel more secure knowing they are active participants in their healthcare decisions. Once consent is obtained, the sonographer can proceed with the ultrasound, having assured that the patient understands and agrees to the procedure.

While preparing the ultrasound machine is important for a successful examination and scheduling follow-up appointments can be part of patient management, these actions do not directly relate to the patient's right to be informed and provide consent regarding the procedure. Diagnosing a patient's condition is outside the role of a sonographer, as this usually falls within the responsibilities of a physician.