Course Syllabus for SDMS CME Credits

Description of course:

The Registry Review courses have been modeled after the current ARDMS_® exam content outlines to provide a comprehensive and effective registry preparation tool. The monthly subscription rate offers access to the course from anywhere, at any time on your computer or mobile device. The courses provide a simplified breakdown of the necessary materials for preparing for the ARDMS_® exam, which includes detailed information with superior quality images.

Each review course is segmented into smaller sections of information to assist in studying specific areas and in locating the information you would like to review. The outline format provides the key points and facts in an easy to read format. The over 1,000 digital images available can be enlarged for a more detailed review with a single click. Each chapter includes reading comprehension questions to aid in retention of the information.

This course is intended for use in preparation for the ARDMS_® Abdominal Sonography registry exam. The course materials are also an excellent resource for seasoned Sonographers to brush up on current topics in the field. Sections include: General Information and Hemodynamics, Abdominal Vasculature, Liver, Gallbladder, Spleen, Pancreas, Urinary System, Prostate, Testicular, Thyroid and Superficial Structures.

Goals for the course:

• To assist Sonographers in obtaining their ARDMS_® certification.
• To provide a complete review of the necessary information a Sonographer should have mastered in order to obtain and maintain their Abdominal certification.
• To provide Sonographers with a review course that can be easily revised as the field changes.
• To provide experienced Sonographers with a comprehensive review of the current information in their field of practice for continuing their Sonography education.

Course objectives:

Upon completion of the course, the Sonographer should be able to:

• Describe the characteristics of an ultrasound machine
• Summarize the effects of hemodynamic changes in the venous and arterial systems
• Identify normal anatomy of the abdominal organs, thyroid, male pelvis
• Identify normal musculoskeletal anatomy of the pediatric hip, wrist, elbow, shoulder and knee
• Describe how to adjust the console settings to optimize each abdominal and small parts exam
• Discuss laboratory values and clinical findings as they relate to disease processes in the abdomen and small parts
• List the methods used in standard precautions and for the different types of patient isolation
• List the proper protocol for imaging each abdominal organ, thyroid, male pelvis and limited musculoskeletal structures and breasts
• Discuss changes to image protocols when abnormalities are identified
• Describe the Sonographic appearance of congenital anomalies, diffuse diseases, infectious processes, vascular abnormalities, benign and malignant neoplasms of the following:
  • Liver
  • Gallbladder and biliary system
  • Pancreas
  • Spleen
  • Great vessels and abdominal vasculature
  • Urinary system
  • Adrenal glands
  • Prostate
  • Scrotum
  • Thyroid
  • GI tract (limited)
  • Breast (limited)
  • Musculoskeletal structures (limited)
• Describe protocols for thoracentesis, paracentesis, and biopsy procedures

No accompanying text or required readings. Material can be referenced in the numerous resources listed on the attached Bibliography pages.

Reference List: See attached Bibliography.