Credit Points 10

Coordinator Catherine Robinson Opens in new window

Description This subject introduces students to the practice of obstetric and gynecological (O&G) sonography. Students will learn how to acquire and optimise transabdominal ultrasound images and make key measurements. They will learn to draw conclusions about fetal and maternal anatomy and function based on images and measurements. In addition, students will develop their professional and ethical skills by learning how to plan and implement O&G ultrasounds in a safe and ethical manner. The skills and knowledge learnt in this subject, which includes work-integrated learning, provide foundational clinical and professional skills in O&G sonography.

School Medicine

Discipline Radiography

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Check your fees via the Fees page.

Level Postgraduate Coursework Level 7 subject

Co-requisite(s) RADI 5001 - Physics for Diagnostic Ultrasound

Assumed Knowledge

Basic human anatomy, physiology and mathematics

Learning Outcomes

After successful completion of this subject, students will be able to:

1. Integrate transducer manipulation and machine optimisation to acquire standardised transabdominal O&G ultrasound images
2. Implement anatomical and physiological measurement techniques to provide clinical information about the female pelvis
3. Perform biometric measurements in obstetric examinations to aid in determining viability and gestational age
4. Critique performed O&G measurements against established guidelines for ensuring quality control
5. Plan and implement ultrasound examinations to ensure best patient outcomes
6. Apply legal, ethical and safe practice to meet established professional standards
7. Document clinical experiences and activities to form reflective skills

Subject Content

Module 1: Sonographic practice 1
1. Anatomical planes and sonographic terminology
2. Ultrasound machine operation and knobology
3. Image acquisition and optimisation

Module 2: Professional & Ethical practice 1
1. Planning and implementing an ultrasound examination
2. Patient-centred care and communication
3. Ergonomics for sonographers

Module 3: Speciality knowledge and imaging skills 1
1. The female reproductive system and menstrual cycle
2. Assessment of the uterus and endometrium
3. Early human embryology
4. Foundations of first trimester sonography
5. Determining viability and location in early pregnancy
6. Fetal biometric measurements

Special Requirements

Legislative pre-requisites

Legislative requirements (such as a criminal record check) are not deemed necessary for students in the O&G ultrasonography course. For students who complete their clinical training in a NSW public hospital, the necessary legislative requirements will be part of their employment conditions. Clinical training for many of the students will be in a private setting, where the necessary requirements (which are likely to differ from public institutions) will be addressed as needed. Training for some students will occur in states other than NSW (where legislative requirements can be completed if, and when required) 

Essential equipment

Students will need a computer and internet access to use the e-learning platform.