Combined Guidance for the Safe Use of Medical Ultrasound
A new BMUS document, Combined Guidance for the Safe Use of Medical Ultrasound, has been released to provide a single point of reference for operational leads, managers and clinical staff working in ultrasound services. The guidance aims to bring clarity and consistency to a profession that has evolved rapidly, reflecting new routes into sonography and the increasing reliance on international recruitment to meet growing demand.
The document acknowledges that traditional pathways into ultrasound are no longer the sole entry routes. With apprenticeships, direct-entry degrees and postgraduate options now available, departments are recruiting from a wider and more varied professional pool. While this diversity strengthens the workforce, it also raises questions about governance, professional accountability and patient safety. International recruitment is addressed through references to NHS England’s recruitment and retention toolkits, alongside the Code of Practice for the International Recruitment of Health and Social Care Personnel in England. Together these resources encourage ethical and transparent employment, while supporting new staff as they adapt to the UK’s healthcare system.
The document also draws attention to the importance of career development and structured preceptorship, particularly for new graduates and those transitioning into advanced roles. Frameworks produced by BMUS and the Society of Radiographers are recommended to help departments establish robust systems of supervision, mentoring and professional growth. Continued professional development is another central theme, with the guidance outlining HCPC expectations, funding access and a variety of learning opportunities, including e-learning resources and peer review initiatives such as Radiology Education and Learning Meetings (REALM).
Further sections explore the practical aspects of service quality, including adherence to RCR and SoR standards, equipment safety and quality assurance, and the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders—a persistent concern within the profession. The document also highlights the growing role of point-of-care ultrasound, stressing the need for clear governance frameworks where scanning occurs outside traditional radiology departments.
By consolidating the most relevant policies, standards and reference materials, Combined Guidance for the Safe Use of Medical Ultrasound serves as a comprehensive and accessible resource for ensuring patient safety, supporting workforce development and maintaining excellence in ultrasound practice.