Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography

The two-year Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography Ontario College Graduate Certificate provides you with the essential theoretical knowledge and technical skills required to produce, evaluate and diagnose sonographic images of the heart.

Ultrasound is an important, non-invasive diagnostic tool used to identify the anatomical and physiological state of internal organs. Working independently and in collaboration with healthcare team members, Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographers capture, analyze and identify a variety of complex ultrasound images. These images assist cardiologists in the diagnosis and management of different heart diseases in children and adults.

Through theory, simulation, lab practice and extensive clinical experiences, you learn to manipulate sound waves to create images of the human heart. You consider health and safety in your work and apply quality assurance for the safe and proper use of ultrasound in the clinical setting.

This program offers you the hands-on skills you need for success. You have two, 450-hour field placements where you enhance your technical, professional, interpersonal and patient management skills. These acquired skills help you to function as a member of a healthcare team.

What You’ll Learn

• Act in accordance with applicable regulations and professional guidelines to meet the standards of practice.
• Perform examination procedures, obtain images, correlate results, and analyze data using critical thinking and problem solving to meet diagnostic expectations of the health care team.
• Provide care that recognizes and respects the dignity, culture and individuality of patients and clients to ensure a safe and comfortable environment.
• Perform as an effective practitioner within cardiac sonography to be a valuable member of the multi-disciplinary health care team, assuming a leadership role as required.
• Communicate effectively and professionally as a member of a multi-disciplinary healthcare team using relevant terminology, behaviour and language appropriate to the recipient to ensure understanding and informed care.
• Operate ultrasound equipment safely and effectively to ensure patient/workplace safety.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.