Students will be able to:

• maintain patient confidentiality/privacy as defined by HIPAA

• demonstrate ethical and professional demeanor as outlined in the SDMS Code of Ethics

• review the physician’s order for the examination

• obtain pertinent studies, reports, lab values as they relate to the exam

• perform patient assessments

• explain the procedure to the patient

• perform ultrasound exams according to the Scope of Practice for sonographers as identified by the SDMS and according to recognized exam protocols

• produce diagnostic sonographic images, optimizing technical factors such as grey scale; color and spectral Doppler

• document exam with proper labeling, findings and correlative data

• recognize normal anatomical structures

• apply and report accurate measurements

• identify the changes of the ultrasound appearance of organs or structures due to various pathologies and list the differential diagnosis that could be responsible for these changes

• recognize the significance of artifacts produced by ultrasound

• acquire and analyze data obtained using ultrasound and related diagnostic technologies

• correlate clinical history, related studies and exam findings with academic knowledge

• provide a summary of findings to the physician

• use appropriate medical terminology and language to describe findings to the physician through both oral and written communication

• operate departmental information systems (i.e. PACS)

• identify and respond to medical emergency situations

• calculate/solve mathematical equations related to ultrasound physics

• practice ALARA principles to protect patients from potential bio effects

• utilize resources and information data bases for continuing education credits and professional growth

• identify the advantages of belonging to professional organizations

The Associate Degree OR the Certificate of Completion for this program is awarded upon satisfactory completion of all general education requirements, related requirements, and technical requirements for a total of 55 credits (DMS Certificate tract) and 88-89 credits (DMS Associate Degree). These requirements are based on the standards and guidelines of the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (SDMS), the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). CAAHEP is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is Nationally Accredited by this same Commission. Upon completion of these programs graduates are eligible to sit for the National Certification Examinations.

For questions about links, please contact Susan Wood.

For questions about plans and report, please contact Darla Matthew.