Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Knowledge of natural and life sciences and pathology supports the range of routine and advanced techniques utilised in the clinical context.
• Knowledge of natural sciences helps the learners build knowledge and skills necessary for the choice of equipment and manipulation of controls necessary for patient management and healthcare service delivery.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Relevant patient care is identified and correctly applied before, during and after the examination in a manner which ensures that patient well-being and needs are met.
• Procedures and requirements are communicated effectively to allow informed consent to be given either verbally or in writing as appropriate.
• Decision-making and accountability demonstrates an understanding of the ethical requirements of a professional medical environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Psychological, cultural and ethical considerations of the patient and their families are recognised and acted upon professionally.
• Rights of the patient, as entrenched in the Human Rights Bill, the Patients Charter and medical law are protected and confidentiality maintained.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• The merits of each technique can be evaluated, concerning other diagnostic procedures.
• Images demonstrate the anatomy, pathology and measurements relevant to the sonographic protocol.
• The choice of equipment and control settings demonstrates the knowledge of ultrasound physics and Doppler required for quality image production.
• Advanced recording and imaging principles are understood in order to be applied appropriately in the clinical context.
• Image artefacts are recognised and minimised, where possible, to avoid misdiagnosis.
• Relevant clinical information is understood and utilised to allow for the correct interpretation of the images.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Correct scanning planes for each organ are demonstrated to ensure an optimal examination is performed.
• Images show the correct patient and technical information to comply with medico-legal requirements.
• Required technical information is demonstrated to aid in the interpretation of the image.
• Appropriate modifications made during the examination show that technical problems are correctly identified.
• Normal sonographic appearances of each specified examination are recognised.
• Variations to the above are recognised, which allows for the detection of abnormalities.
• Normal and abnormal appearances are accurately described (verbally and in written format) and the information acted upon to the benefit of the patient.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• The relevant legislature is known for general health and safety principles to be applied in the working environment.
• Knowledge of ultrasound bio-effects and their potential for harm is demonstrated in the performance of scanning protocols in keeping with the ALARA principle.
• Manipulation of the safety indices shows a knowledge of their relevance.
• A hygienic and neat work environment is maintained in order to eliminate the possibility of cross-infection.
• Knowledge of the special precautions required in specific examinations is demonstrated which ensures the safety of patients, colleagues and self.
• Equipment is maintained in order to comply with national and international safety standards.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• Principles of quality assurance and quality control are demonstrated in the development of departmental protocols.
• Equipment and accessories are selected, purchased and maintained within an available budget to provide a cost-effective service.
• Communication and co-operation between all role players are effectively developed and maintained in order to provide an optimal service.
• Performance management strategies are developed in a manner which shows an understanding of management principles and current legislation.
• Departmental records and statistics are accurately maintained in accordance with the departmental and Statutory Health Council requirements.
• Integrated knowledge of management, technology and legislation is demonstrated in the ability to design and equip a new or alter an existing, ultrasound facility.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8

• Research principles and methodology in the field of Ultrasound research are demonstrated in the form of a research proposal and project.
• The relevance of the research is in line with national needs and ethical policies and procedures.
• Suitable resources are critically evaluated and used to facilitate the research project.
• Information is critically assessed in order to be presented professionally.
• Written work submitted reflects the knowledge and appropriate use of information sources.
• Computer literacy of adequate knowledge and use is demonstrated.

Integrated Assessment

• Integrated assessment takes the form of an appropriate variety of assessments methods for example: written and oral examinations, problem-solving assignments, projects, presentations, case studies, portfolios, logbooks, clinical reports, assessment of clinical competence through simulated and clinical assessment in situ, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE) and the successful completion of a mini-dissertation.
• The qualification will be awarded to a learner who has provided evidence, to the satisfaction of the assessors, that the competence of the qualification, as detailed in the stated outcomes, has been achieved, either through education and training in a single provider's learning programme or though experience that complies with the stated specific outcomes, i.e. RPL is recognised.
• The integrated assessment needs to have the following characteristics:
  • It should assess the extent to which learners can practice competently, effectively and safely in any clinical context nationally and internationally.
  • It should measure the extent to which learners have integrated the professional roles, knowledge and skills delivered through the different outcomes reflected in the relevant programme.
  • It should provide opportunities for reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action to develop reflexive competence.