Carotid Ultrasound Program – Online Learning Modules
Description
The Carotid Ultrasound course is designed for the Generalist or Cardiac sonographer who performs carotid exams in their practice. This self-paced, theory-based course covers the basic elements of anatomy, physics, exam protocols, carotid disease, and correlative imaging across five learning modules and approximately 12 hours of learning. Sonographers will review the theory of the carotid exam in preparation to use their skills in clinical practice/training, in a consistent and thorough review. Module quizzes reinforce learning concepts, and a final quiz will complete the course.
In this initial release of the online course, learners will have access to the video learning modules, some case studies, a course moderator for any questions, and will have access to the course platform to return and review learning.
Upon successful completion of the final course quiz, participants will earn 15 Sonography Based CPD credits and a Knowledge Enrichment Certificate.
Module One: Cerebrovascular Anatomy
Anatomy review is the perfect launch point for this Carotid course. This module, broken down into four parts, covers all aspects of cerebrovascular anatomy including arterial wall anatomy, extra-cranial anatomy, intracranial anatomy and collateral routes, and carotid variant anatomy.
Module Two: Vascular Physics and Hemodynamics Review (in relation to the carotid system)
Sonographers will benefit from this physics review, an important module on hemodynamics. Over five segments, this module will delve into Doppler theory, colour and power Doppler, and pulsed Doppler. You’ll review normal hemodynamics, as well as hemodynamics in a stenosis.
Module Three: Examination Protocols
There are many aspects to the carotid examination protocol. This three-part module on Doppler acquisition and analysis will review examination protocols including required images and scanning techniques.
Module Four: Carotid Disease and Pathology
Understanding carotid disease and pathology is critical to the carotid examination. In Part 1 of this module, you will review cerebrovascular disease including risk factors, signs and symptoms, and mechanisms of disease. Part 2 will review pathology of the carotid system including plaque, stenosis, dissection, arteritis, and carotid body tumour, and more. You will understand the clinical application of Trans-Cranial Doppler (TCD) imaging and intracranial examination.
Module 5: Correlative Imaging and Treatment
How is carotid disease managed? What other imaging modalities are beneficial for diagnosis of carotid disease? This module will examine when correlative imaging studies using MRI and CT are required. In Part 2, treatment of carotid disease is reviewed, giving you an understanding of the options, standards, guidelines, and the patient’s treatment journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will completing this course fully qualify me to perform carotid examinations?
No. Sonography Canada does encourage sonographers only to perform examinations and tasks in the specialties for which they have received academic and clinical training and in which they are credentialed or eligible for credentials in. If a sonographer(s) is not credentialed (Sonography Canada, ARDMS, etc.) in the area they are practicing or completing a task which they haven’t previously received education and training in, the following three criteria should be in place:
- Sonographers must have undertaken training to acquire the knowledge, skills and judgment to perform the act or acts
- The institution must have in place policies, procedures and standardized protocols related to the act or acts
- The institution must have in place a formal ongoing quality assurance program related to the act or acts
Sonographers must be provided with sufficient education, training, and support to be fully competent as outlined above in the required areas. Sonography Canada does not advise on, nor approve the adequacy of training, protocols, and quality assurance (QA) programs.
Q: I am a CRVS/RVT credentialed sonographer. Is this program right for me?
No. The Carotid Ultrasound program was developed by a team of CRVS/RVT credentialed sonographers for the non-vascular audience. Through credentialing, Vascular sonographers have demonstrated more comprehensive knowledge, skills and judgement of vascular ultrasound examinations such as carotids.
Q: How do I get hands-on skills training in carotid examinations?
Each sonographer will have different opportunities for clinical skills training in their academic or clinical setting. You may be new to Carotid exams and training under the guidance of a mentor. You may be experienced, but want to refresh your skills, or validate your knowledge of carotid anatomy and pathology. Clinical skills training can take time and depending on your level of clinical exposure to carotid exams, getting hands-on experience with carotid studies will vary. You can also look for hands-on education opportunities offered at our annual conference SonoCon or hosted locally through academic institutions.
Q: Why should I take this online theory course?
If you are new to performing carotid exams, re-introducing yourself to carotid exams, or want to get ready to begin performing carotid exams as a credentialed sonographer, this theory-based online program is a great place to start. Expanding your knowledge will allow you to acquire the skills and judgement that you develop through clinical practice.
Q: How many CPD credits will I earn?
Upon successful completion of the online course, learners will earn 15 Sonography Based CPD credits, and a Knowledge Enrichment Certificate.
