Albany Medical Center
Department of Emergency Medicine
Ultrasound Division

Topics

Aorta
DVT
IV Access

Objectives

Aorta

• 1. Describe the clinical indications for the exam.
  

• 2. Describe examination technique.
  

• 3. Discuss the sonographic findings associated with a normal aorta.
  

• 4. Identify anatomic structures visualized during an aortic exam. (review images from the optional Curry chapter to cement the sonographic appearance of these landmarks)
  

• 5. List the sonographic findings of a AAA.
  

• 6. Compare and contrast AAA and aortic dissection.
  

• 7. Discuss the exam limitations.
  

• 8. Discuss pearls and pitfalls of the exam.
  

DVT

• 1. Limitations and indications for the exam.
  

• 2. Describe the examination technique including vessel identification and compression.
  

• 3. Understanding of Color/Power Doppler evaluation including augmentation, spontaneity and phasicity.
  

• 4. Recognize the pitfalls of examination.
  

• 5. Recognize associated structures such as lymph nodes and Baker's cyst.
  

IV Access

• 1. Describe and demonstrate proper technique utilized in the performance of an ultrasound guided IV.   
  

• 2. Identify key structures visualized during the exam.   
  

• 3. List sonographic findings of a clotted vein.   
  

• 4. Compare and contrast long-axis and short-axis approaches.   
  

• 5. Discuss needle visualization with ultrasound.
  

Hands on Experience

Aorta

Become comfortable imaging and turning on vascular structures.

DVT

Comfort with compression and rudimentary application of Color Doppler.

IV Access

Watch the vascular access video and practice with the phantom early in the rotation so you can work on vascular access as the need arises in the ED during the rotation.

Quiz

Take the ACEP Ultrasound Aorta quiz and DVT quiz and bring a printout of the results to the meeting.