Essentials of Imaging and Clinical Operations

Serving in a PMC brings with it standards that are crucial for all team members to know and understand. We base our clinical standards on AWHONN guidelines. From the board of directors to volunteers, all will benefit from clinic accountability training to serve in this high-risk setting.

• Peace of mind for Medical Director, board, and ED/CEO because of attention given to team education
• Meets or Exceeds professional standards resulting in RNs who scan with confidence
• Return on Investment

Organizations like AWHONN (Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nursing), AIUM (American Institute of Ultrasound), ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), SDMS (Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography), and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) have set standards that are critical for all involved with the PMC to follow for best practices. Here are just a few examples:

According to the AWHONN guidelines, Clinical Competencies and Education Guide, 4th Edition

• The performance of ultrasound examinations is an appropriate practice for registered nurses (RNs) specializing in obstetric, gynecology, and reproductive medicine as dictated by the clinical situation.
• Performing these ultrasound examinations represents an expanded nursing role and thus is not to be undertaken by the novice or inexperienced obstetric, gynecologic, or reproductive medicine RN. See Fundamentals in OB Patient Care.

According to AIUM point-of-care ultrasound is ultrasound imaging performed during a patient encounter or procedure to enhance patient care. (2010)

Licensed RNs who have the necessary knowledge, skills, and training in the specific imaging procedure to be performed and who are performing these exams within the scope of practice as defined by the licensing jurisdiction may perform point-of-care ultrasound [SDMS], 2011a.

Fetal ultrasound should be performed only when there is a valid medical reason [ACOG], 2009; AIUM, 2012b, 2012c). Performing 
an obstetric ultrasound primarily for keepsake images or to determine fetal gender without a medical indication is not recommended (ACOG, 2009; AIUM, 2012b, 2012c; Food and Drug Administration [FDA], 2015). The U.S. FDA states that the use of ultrasound equipment for these purposes is an unapproved use of a medical device. This practice may violate state or local laws regarding use of such devices without a prescription (FDA, 2015).

This lecture-based course is a part of the ultrasound-training program of Sparrow Sonography.

This course is essential for the entire PMC team.

Program Overview

• Clinic accountability training for the team, providing a starting point for leadership
• Basics of clinic operations and patient care based on medical organization standards
• Standardization of PMC organization operation
• Documentation of education for individual staff and volunteers
• Increased participation in training due to on-site format

All Sparrow Sonography trainers are experienced registered sonographers. Sparrow Sonography training programs include hands-on ultrasound practicum, didactic, continuing education, registry preparation, and certification preparation programs.

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Feedback From Recent Essentials of Imaging Participants

The course went above and beyond my expectations.

Really learned the cohesiveness of purpose and professionalism.

Accurate, up to date information.

Loved this, learned so much about so many aspects of this new opportunity.

Really feel like I am prepared.

What was your favorite section?

Standards of Care

Professionalism that was taught and displayed!

Policies and procedures

How I’d describe the class:

• Useful
• Informative
• Organized
• Beneficial
• Clear
• Accurate
• Fun