Professionals performing cardiac ultrasound require a sound understanding of cardiac anatomy and physiology, cardiac pathophysiology, principles of physics, fundamental ultrasound techniques, and specialised knowledge, to accurately perform diagnostic examinations. Learn how to critically analyse and interpret cardiac function using 2D, M-mode, myocardial strain imaging, spectral, and colour Doppler modalities. Interpretation skills will be enhanced by integrating knowledge of anatomy and the cardiac cycle to use both qualitative and qualitative methods to determine the presence and severity of cardiac pathology. A critical lens will be required to examine the limitation of ultrasound and the application of haemodynamic calculations, and how this applies to clinical ultrasound. Lastly, the exploration of cultural safety will be continued.
The course is delivered primarily online by distance via the University of Auckland’s learning management system ‘Canvas’. It incorporates a range of learning approaches including videos, webpages, links to the library databases and resources, and utilising online technologies to promote shared learning opportunities. Academic learning is expected to inform clinical practice and enhance levels of clinical competency. This course is a compulsory part of the PGDipHSc (Cardiac Ultrasound) programme. Access to a clinical ultrasound department is required.