Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Principle I: In order to promote patient well-being, the diagnostic medical sonographer shall:

Provide information to the patient about the purpose, risks, and benefits of the ultrasound procedure and respond to the patient's questions and concerns.
Respect the patient's autonomy and the right to refuse the procedure.
Recognize the patient's individuality and provide care in a non-judgmental and non-discriminatory manner.
Promote the privacy, dignity and comfort of the patient (relatives and significant others) by thoroughly explaining procedure protocols and implementing proper draping techniques.
Protect confidentiality of acquired patient information.
Strive toensure patient safety.

Principle II: To promote the highest level of competent practice, diagnostic medical sonographers shall:

Obtain appropriate ultrasound education and clinical skills to ensure competence.
Achieve and maintain specialty specific ultrasound credentials. Ultrasound credentials must be awarded by a national sonography credentialing body recognized by the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) Board of Directors.
Uphold professional standards by adhering to defined technical protocols and diagnostic criteria established by peer review.
Acknowledge personal and legal limits, practice within the defined scope of practice, and assume responsibility for his/her actions.
Maintain continued competence through continuing education and/or recertification.
Perform only medically indicated studies, ordered by a physician or their designated health care provider.
Protect patients and/or study subjects by adhering to oversight and approval of investigational procedures, including documented informed consent.
Refrain from the use of any substances that may alter judgment or skill and thereby compromise patient care.
Be accountable and participate in regular assessment and review of equipment, procedures, protocols, and results.

Principle III: To promote professional integrity and public trust, the diagnostic medical sonographer shall:

Be truthful and promote appropriate and timely communications with patients, colleagues, and the public.
Respect the rights of patients, colleagues, the public and yourself.
Avoid conflicts of interest and situations that exploit others or misrepresent information.
Accurately represent his/her level of competence, education and certification.
Promote equitable care.
Collaborate with professional colleagues to create an environment that promotes communication and respect.
Recognize that well-intentioned healthcare providers can find themselves in ethical dilemmas; communicate and collaborate with others in resolving ethical practice. Report deviations from the SDMS Code of Ethics for the Profession of Diagnostic Medical Sonography to supervisors, so that they may be addressed according to local policy and procedures.
Engage in ethical billing practices.
Engage only in legal arrangements in the medical industry.

Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography Code of Ethics September 29, 2004.