Course Number and Title:
DMS 131 Abdominal/Small Parts Sonography I
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: (MAT 162 or higher), BIO 120, PHY 111, and ENG 101
Course Credits and Hours
2 credit(s)
2 lecture hours/week
1.5 lab hours/week
Course Description
This course studies the diagnostic medical sonography of the abdomen to include cross-sectional anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology of abdominal viscera.
Additional Materials
None
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
- Examine the cross-sectional anatomy of the abdominal viscera. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)
- Describe the principles of scanning technique in examining the abdominal viscera. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)
- Identify sonographically normal anatomy and the physiology of the abdominal vasculature. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)
- Identify and document the pathology and pathophysiology of the abdominal viscera. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)
- Discuss the laboratory testing associated with the abdominal viscera. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5; PGC 1)
- Explain and document the preparation that should precede a sonographic examination of the abdominal viscera. (CCC 1, 4, 5; PGC 1, 4)
- Perform basic abdominal imaging views using appropriate equipment and techniques. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Examine the cross-sectional anatomy of the abdominal viscera.
- Explain normal gross anatomy, location, size, and adjacent organ relationships of the abdominal viscera, including but not limited to abdominal wall, peritoneal cavity, noncardiac chest, liver, gallbladder and biliary system, pancreas, great vessels and branches, aorta and branches, and lung/pleura.
- Discuss the importance of a technical systematic approach in examining the normal morphological structures of the viscera.
- Define directional terms, anatomic position, and anatomic planes relating to cross-sectional anatomy.
- Define image quality terms and internal echo patterns used in sonographic procedures.
- Describe the principles of scanning technique in examining the abdominal viscera.
- Discuss the importance and benefit of using proper transducer selection and technique in abdominal examinations.
- Describe the accepted guidelines and scanning protocols of abdominal examinations.
- Perform protocol within allowable scan time limits.
- Identify sonographically normal anatomy and the physiology of the abdominal vasculature.
- Discuss hemodynamic characteristics in abdominal vessels in both fasting and postprandial states.
- Discuss vessel composition and systemic circulation.
- Discuss visceral physiology and its essential importance to life.
- Identify and document the pathology and pathophysiology of the abdominal viscera.
- Discuss and identify the sonographic appearances of pathologies relating to inflammatory, neoplastic, infectious, obstructive, metabolic, traumatic, degenerative, iatrogenic, congenital, and immunologic process of abdominal viscera, including but not limited to abdominal wall, peritoneal cavity, noncardiac chest, liver, gallbladder, and biliary system, pancreas, great vessels and branches, and aorta and branches.
- Discuss and identify various anatomic variants.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the physiology, pathophysiology, sonographic technique, measurements, sonographic appearance, and Doppler patterns, where applicable, in both normal and abnormal structures.
- Discuss the laboratory testing associated with the abdominal viscera.
- Discuss the liver function tests (LFTs).
- Discuss the role of cholecystokinin (CCK) in gallbladder function.
- Discuss the roles of amylase, lipase, and bilirubin in pancreatic studies.
- Explain and document the preparation which should precede a sonographic examination of the abdominal viscera.
- Describe the steps involved in patient preparation for abdominal studies.
- Discuss scanning unit preparation with regard to transducer selection, exam table height, and patient body habitus.
- Perform basic abdominal imaging views using appropriate equipment and techniques.
- Perform imaging and evaluate normal relational anatomy of organs/systems, including but not limited to abdominal wall, peritoneal cavity, noncardiac chest, liver, gallbladder and biliary system, and prevertebral vessels.
- Produce written reports of findings using sonographic terminology.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90-100 |
= |
A |
| 80-89 |
= |
B |
| 70-79 |
= |
C |
| 0-69 |
= |
F |
Students should refer to the
Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Final Course Grade
Calculated using the following weighted average
|
Evaluation Measure
|
Percentage of final grade
|
|
Professional Behaviors (Formative)
|
5%
|
|
Quizzes (5) (Equally Weighted) (Formative)
|
5%
|
|
Lab Competencies (2) (5% each) (Summative)
|
10%
|
|
Exams (5) (Equally Weighted) (Summative)
|
50%
|
|
Simulator & Classroom/Workbook Assignments (Formative)
|
10%
|
|
Final Comprehensive Exam (Summative)
|
20%
|
|
TOTAL
|
100%
|
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
AHTAASDMO
- Graduates will demonstrate clinical competence by performing a full range of diagnostic medical sonography procedures on all patient populations pertaining to their learning concentration.
- Graduates will professionally utilize verbal, nonverbal, and written communication skills in patient care, procedure intervention, and professional relationships.
- Graduates will demonstrate professional growth and development by acting in a professional and ethical manner and comply with the professional scope of practice.
- Graduates will integrate critical thinking and problem solving skills as expected of a healthcare professional.
AHTAASDMS
- Perform competently a full range of diagnostic medical sonographic procedures pertaining to their learning concentration.
- Utilize professional verbal, nonverbal, and written communication skills in patient care, procedure intervention, and professional relationships.
- Act in a professional and ethical manner and comply with professional scope of practice.
- Integrate critical thinking and problem solving skills as expected of a healthcare professional.
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability
We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.