October 2006 | Vol. 24, No. 10

SVU Member Profile

Courtney Nelms, BS RVT RDMS

Senior Vascular Technologist and Peripheral Vascular Research Coordinator
Vascular and Transplant Specialists
Norfolk, VA

What is your current title and employer?

I am a Senior Vascular Technologist and Peripheral Vascular Research Coordinator for Vascular and Transplant Specialists in Norfolk, Virginia.

When did you start this position?

I was lucky enough to be hired right out of ultrasound school. They took a chance on a “green” technologist in 1995.

What degrees and credentials do you have?

I have a BS degree in Sports Medicine from Old Dominion University. This gave me a good background in anatomy, physiology and physics. I obtained my RVT and my RDMS credential from ARDMS in 1996.

Where and when did you get your vascular training?

After completing college, I worked for a year in cardiac rehabilitation. I entered a cardiovascular technology program with the intention of specializing in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. My introduction into vascular technology changed my focus. I found vascular technology to be extremely challenging and I was hooked. I graduated from Sentara Norfolk General School of Cardiovascular Technology with an emphasis in Peripheral Vascular Ultrasound in 1995.

How long have you been in the vascular technology profession?

I have been a vascular sonographer for approximately 12 years.

When did you join SVU?

I became a member of SVU (then SVT) in 1995. I am fortunate to have my employer encourage and support my involvement in SVU.

What do you like best about your current position?

Our practice and staff has grown significantly over the past several years. This has given us a good diversity among our sonographers. Everyone has something special to offer and we work together well. I especially enjoy teaching and mentoring newer sonographers. I often find that I can learn a lot from them! That part of my job makes it rewarding.

Have you served on an SVU Committee, if so, which one(s) and when?

I am currently Chair of the Abstract Committee and took on this position in 2005. I was on the Abstract Committee from 2001-2005. I am also on the Membership Committee from 2003-present. I had the privilege of serving on the SVU Board of Director’s as well for three years (2003-2005).

Are you a member of an SVU Affiliated Chapter?

I am a member of Eastern Virginia Vascular Technologists (EVVT) since 1995. We have successful educational meetings throughout the year and are jointly hosting a meeting in October with Central Virginia Vascular Technologists (CVVT). The meeting will be held in Virginia Beach, VA.

If yes, what positions have you served at that chapter, if any, and when?

Early in my career I served as EVVT secretary for 2 years. This was a great opportunity for me to become involved in my local chapter and learn I how could contribute even as a new sonographer.

What do you feel are the biggest issues facing vascular technologists today?

I think the biggest issue is trying to deal with the shortage of experienced vascular sonographers and resources while the demand for high quality studies increases. Sonographers are often faced with the “do more with less” scenario. Issues such as the Deficit Reduction Act and proposed cuts in Medicare reimbursement could certainly affect our future. The quality of ultrasound studies needs to remain the focus of our goals and this should never be compromised.

What tips would you give to today’s ultrasound students about their career in the vascular ultrasound profession?

Never let an opportunity pass to learn something new. I am still learning every day in this field after 12 years. I love to hear another perspective on how to perform an exam. If you stay involved in professional vascular societies on a local and national level, you will meet many colleagues who have a lot of knowledge to share.

How can SVU better serve its members in the future?

I think SVU does a great job with keeping members informed about legislative issues through the website and the e-Spectrum monthly online newsletter. Since I served previously as a member of the SVU Board of Directors, I know the amount of dedication and hard work that goes on behind the scenes. SVU should continue to strive to be the “voice of vascular ultrasound” and strengthen relationships with other societies as well.

If married, what is your husband’s name? Do you have any children? If so, what are their names and ages? Any pets?

I married my high school sweetheart Chris. We have a son named Christopher who is 3-1/2 years old and the love of our life! We have a black lab named Lucy (she was the first baby), two cats and many salt water fish.

What do you do for fun and relaxation when not working?

I love to spend time at the beach with my family, running and planning yet another home improvement project.