Delivery of the module will embody the Herts learning principles. You should be available to attend all days as advertised. 

This course is designed for health care professionals particularly radiographers, midwives and nurses who wish to develop the necessary clinical and evaluative skills for the competent performance and accurate reporting of obstetric ultrasound examinations. The course is taken in combination with Ultrasound Image Production & Optimisation and Principles of Ultrasound Reporting in order to achieve an ultrasound qualification. It may only be studied as a standalone course by qualified sonographers who have not previously studied Obstetric ultrasound. 

This module forms part of a medical ultrasound programme which is accredited by Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education (CASE) 

Course aims 

This course aims to enable students to develop the necessary clinical and evaluative skills for the competent performance and accurate reporting of obstetric ultrasound examinations. 

Course Notes

The course is facilitated by University staff and external lecturers. Delivery of the course incorporates blended learning which aims to combine practical, simulation and classroom-based learning.

Content 

On completion of the module students will typically: 

• Be able to demonstrate a depth of knowledge and critical understanding of normal and abnormal pregnancy from conception to birth including maternal complications and common fetal developmental anomalies that may arise during pregnancy.
• Have a comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable for ultrasound investigation of normal and abnormal pregnancy from conception to birth including maternal complications and common fetal developmental anomalies that may arise during pregnancy.
• Demonstrate critical awareness in synthesising clinical information and evaluative skills for the competent performance of ultrasound examinations of the pregnant uterus and related abdominal and pelvic structures.
• Demonstrate a range of advanced communication and decision-making skills and engage confidently in academic and professional communication appropriate to their professional practice.
• Demonstrate technical expertise in competently performing obstetric ultrasound examinations with precision and effectiveness. 

A suitable clinical placement 

Ultrasound Image production and optimisation and Principles of Ultrasound reporting must be passed before the practical skills assessment is attempted. Prohibited: Early pregnancy 

The assessment is a combination of an evaluation of patient pathway, a 2 hour in class test, completion of a portfolio and a practical skills assessment comprising a session of 3 patients. The practical skills assessment is undertaken in your own department and marked by university staff and your clinical supervisors. A clinical placement in ultrasound is a requirement for the module. 

Coursework 1, 40% 

2000 word evaluation of a patient pathway (1) 

Practical, 60% 

2 hour in class test 

Coursework 1 and the Practical must be passed before the Practical Pass/Fail can be attempted. 

Practical (Pass/Fail) 

Practical skills assessment - Comprising a session of 3 patients. At least two different areas / body parts must be included. 

The portfolio is a compulsory gateway to the practical skills assessment. 

All individual elements of assessment must be passed. 

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding 
Successful students will typically... 

The course is facilitated by University staff and external lecturers. Delivery of the course incorporates blended learning which aims to combine practical, simulation and classroom-based learning.