Professional/Short course Obstetric Ultrasound in Practice

Professional practice forms an integral part of this 30 credit module, Obstetric Ultrasound, demonstrated by the module design, which enables you to study theory whilst engaging in practice.

This professional practice Obstetric Ultrasound module provides both a comprehensive and in-depth programme. There will be opportunities to develop evaluative, problem solving and critical thinking skills, as well as communication skills, to enable you to apply this knowledge to become a proficient practitioner in the field of obstetric ultrasound. You will be able to deliver a high quality service to your clients.

On successful completion of this level 7 (Masters level) module, you will be able to:

• Apply theoretical knowledge to the practice of Obstetric Ultrasound.
• Utilise relevant knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology of the relevant organ systems to solve complex problems.
• Demonstrate a critical knowledge of the legal, ethical and organisational aspects of current ultrasound practice in Obstetric Ultrasound.
• Critically evaluate contemporary research concerning the aetiology and management of pathologies affecting organ systems in order to inform practice, and implement new approaches where appropriate.
• Critically evaluate the contribution that obstetric ultrasound makes, compared to other diagnostic tests/procedures, in order to derive a differential diagnosis.
•  Perform a comprehensive range of obstetric ultrasound procedures both skilfully and safely, demonstrating the skills required of a competent practitioner, and an ability to adapt effectively to new or unusual situations.
• Justify the contribution of the role of obstetric ultrasound to the overall management of the patient.
• Make evaluative judgements on the outcomes of ultrasound examination and report the findings accordingly.
• Make an active contribution within a multidisciplinary professional community by reflecting upon your own and others practice.
• Engage in effective communication with clients, their families and healthcare professionals, and make appropriate referrals as required.

Entry requirements

This module will cover whole of obstetrics ultrasound including early pregnancy assessment, first trimester dating and screening scan, second trimester fetal anomaly scan and third trimester fetal growth scans and Doppler examinations.

There is an option to study any specific aspect of the above mentioned area of obstetrics for example third trimester or early pregnancy assessment by enrolling on a Negotiated Specialist Ultrasound Practice (UZYSPPM-15-M) (Obs) (15 credits) which is a shorter module and runs between 10 January and 5 September.

To enrol onto the course, you are required to:

• have a recognised Bachelor of Science Honours Degree
• be employed and have already organised access to an appropriate clinical work placement in the UK of at least two days (15 hours) a week in order to fulfil the practical requirements of this course
• have a commitment from the department manager to support clinical learning.
• have an appropriately qualified individual who will act as clinical appraiser (supervisor and assessor) who will need to attend a training day taking place on Friday 25 Februar 2022
• have completed and submit a clinical placement audit form with your application to provide evidence of a placement. Please note that UWE Bristol does not offer clinical placements, so the student will have to negotiate a clinical placement in an ultrasound department before applying for the course.

International students will require all of the above and a Tier 2 visa.

If you are new to ultrasound practice, you must also enrol onto the Fundamentals of Ultrasound Technology and Professional Issues in Medical Ultrasound which are compulsory modules in the first year.

The course is part time and requires attendance over five blocks in total and incorporates a blended delivery which will include online content, webinars, face-to-face seminars, simulation and independent studies.

Careers / Further study

This module can contribute towards the MSc Medical Ultrasound.