DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY – CERTIFICATE
The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer is a skilled person qualified by academic and clinical preparation to perform ultrasound exams under the supervision of a qualified physician. The Sonographer may provide this service in a variety of medical settings where the physician is responsible for the use and interpretation of ultrasound procedures. Specifically, the graduate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography will be prepared with the skills necessary to perform ultrasound examinations, provide patient care and record the anatomic, pathologic, and physiologic data for interpretation by the physician.
The program of study includes thirty-six (36) credit hours of didactic, College laboratory, and clinical sessions. Learning experiences emphasize ultrasound physics, abdominal, and OB/GYN sonography. Sonography related to small body structures and special procedures is also included. Clinical experiences are provided at WNY healthcare facilities. Transportation is the responsibility of the student.
The graduate is eligible to sit for The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) Certifying Examination for Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) and the Diagnostic Medical Exam of choice.
Program Learning Outcomes
All students completing this program are expected to achieve the General Education outcomes described in the General Studies section of the catalog as well as the following learning objectives:
· Demonstrate entry-level clinical competence through the explanation and utilization of appropriate sonography procedures and equipment, and through the utilization of appropriate medical terminology.
· Demonstrate effective communication skills through the utilization of appropriate oral communication skills and exhibition of good written communication skills.
· Employ critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to practice within the sonography profession through the analysis of images for diagnostic quality and correcting for non-diagnostic appearance, and through revision of protocols for non-routine procedures.
· Demonstrate professional behavior by practicing the Code of Ethics as set forth by the Society for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) and understanding the need for a professional development plan.
Diagnostic Medical Sonography – Certificate Curriculum
DMS300 Cross Sectional Anatomy - 3 credits
DMS301 Introduction to Diagnostic Medical Sonography - 3 credits
DMS306 Physics of Ultrasound I - 2 credits
DMS310 Abdominal Sonography I - 2 credits
DMS311 Abdominal Sonography Lab I - 1 credit
DMS315 Pelvic Sonography - 2 credits
DMS316 Pelvic Sonography Lab - 1 credit
DMS320 Sonography Clinical Education I - 3 credits
DMS405 Obstetrical Sonography - 3 credits
DMS406 Physics of Ultrasound II - 1 credit
DMS410 Abdominal Sonography II - 2 credits
DMS411 Abdominal Sonography Lab II - 1 credit
DMS415 Seminar/Research Course - 1 credit
DMS419 Special Sonographic Procedures - 2 credits
DMS420 Sonography Clinical Education II - 3 credits
DMS430 Sonography Clinical Education III - 6 credits
Total Program Credits - 36
Additional Degree Requirements
A minimum grade of “C” is required in all courses and a Quality Point Average of 2.0.