Course Overview
Students will learn to modify the routine echocardiogram by integrating patient history, correlating test results, and clinical presentation to perform targeted echocardiography studies. Students will build on the imaging and technical skills learned in DSON 2012 and employ critical thinking skills to adapt examinations to answer specific clinical indications. Topics of this course include 2D, CDI, and spectral Doppler assessment and quantification of the heart structure and function using the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) guidelines. Students will perform echo sonography hands-on skills on a lab partner with instructor guidance.
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Verify written directions and assess and record accurate medical history.
- Verify requested procedure correlates with patient's clinical history and presentation, and address concerns as appropriate.
- Evaluate and address contraindications to procedures.
- Formulate sonographic scanning strategies, interrogate anatomy and acquire diagnostic images of the following:
- Assess the heart with 2D, m-mode, colour Doppler, and spectral Doppler.
- Perform routine measurements and calculations.
- Modify the normal routine to assess for a given pathology.
- Perform calculations on the modified exams to determine the severity of pathology.
- Following the BCIT Full Echo Routine – Normal Patient, complete a full echo in 1 hour.
- Perform examinations in a timely manner.
- Identify and prioritize differential findings and respond to urgent sonographic findings.
- Use medical terminology in oral communication with healthcare professionals.
- Respond appropriately to non-verbal behaviours.
- Assess, monitor, and respond to the patient's physical and mental status and ability to tolerate the exam throughout the entire ultrasound examination.
- Recognize, investigate, and document abnormal findings.
Effective as of Fall 2026
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.