Diagnostic Methods

Catalog description

Restricted to students in the Master of Physician Associate Studies program. This course is designed to introduce students to the different diagnostic methods available for the evaluation and diagnosis of medical conditions in patients. It will specifically cover the different imaging modalities including plain radiography (X-ray), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasonography, vascular imaging, as well as electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiograms (ECHOs), and pulmonary function tests (PFTs). The student will be given the opportunity to: 1) list commonly used diagnostic studies; 2) understand risks associated with these studies; 3) list contraindications to the use of certain studies; 4) provide basic interpretations of each diagnostic study; 5) understand the use of contrast in certain radiological studies; and 6) appreciate the difference between routine, urgent, and emergent studies.