Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
demonstrate a knowledge of the views and measurements necessary to take when performing a viable early pregnancy ultrasound scan and commence an early pregnancy scan under supervision;
as a significant part of clinical practice demonstrate a knowledge of orientation and probe manipulation, identification and imaging basic structures when performing transvaginal ultrasound scans;
demonstrate a knowledge of the views and measurements necessary to take when performing a scan for suspected miscarriage and commence a scan for suspected miscarriage under supervision;
demonstrate a knowledge of the views and measurements necessary to take when performing a scan for suspected ectopic pregnancy and commence a scan for suspected ectopic pregnancy under supervision;
demonstrate a knowledge of the views and measurements necessary to take when performing a routine second trimester fetal anatomy scan and commence a fetal anatomy scan under supervision;
demonstrate an understanding of the views and measurements necessary when performing a scan for fetal size and growth, including a knowledge of the views and measurements necessary to take when assessing amniotic fluid volume and commence a scan for estimation of fetal weight and assessment of amniotic fluid volume under supervision;
demonstrate an understanding of the role of Doppler ultrasound to assess fetal wellbeing, and commence a fetal umbilical artery Doppler ultrasound assessment under supervision;
demonstrate an understanding of both the ultrasound diagnosis and chorionicity assignment in a multiple pregnancy in the first and second trimester;
demonstrate an understanding of the fetal anatomy which can be assessed between 6 and 10 weeks gestation;
demonstrate an understanding of the principles of prenatal screening, including interpretation of biochemical, genetic and other invasive and non-invasive screening/diagnostic tests;
demonstrate a basic knowledge of the information which should be included in obstetric scan reports;
source and analyse appropriate literature on all topics covered;
apply current theories of ultrasound, basic sciences and communication to their clinical reasoning, justifying the contribution of ultrasound to the overall management of the patient;
work effectively in a group to discuss obstetric ultrasound issues;
self-evaluate their performance in the clinical and academic environment;
discuss social and ethical implications of obstetric ultrasound;
work in a safe ergonomic environment.
Indicative Module Content:
Students registered to this module will receive resource sessions relative to the following topics:
normal embryonic and fetal development;
early pregnancy ultrasound views and measurements;
ultrasound assessment of normal early pregnancy;
ultrasound and early embryonic demise/miscarriage;
ultrasound and ectopic pregnancy;
fetal biometry assessment;
ultrasound assessment of fetal anatomy between 6 and 10 weeks gestation;
the performance of the routine second trimester anatomy scan;
placental development and ultrasound assessment of placental site;
ultrasound estimation of fetal weight;
ultrasound assessment of amniotic fluid volume;
first and second trimester diagnosis of multiple pregnancy, and chorionicity;
the concepts of prenatal screening;
the role and concepts of Doppler ultrasound in obstetrics (Introduction);
umbilical artery Doppler assessment.
Practical sessions will be delivered in both UCD and in one of its clinical sites relating to basic ultrasound technology. This includes extensive practice with transvaginal ultrasound;
Practical second and third trimester scanning sessions will also be delivered in a clinical site.
Students are introduced to the issues involved in the reporting of obstetric ultrasound examinations.
The concepts and issues relating to communication, clinical history and clinical investigations, protocols and guidelines, and ethical and social implications are included in al sessions delivered.
Students also study the ergonomics and safe scanning techniques in order to prevent RSI over the course of their scanning careers. The theory for this is supported by a practical workshop.