In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Institute of Medical Ultrasound considers all applicants for admission without discrimination. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to qualified individuals with documented disabilities when such accommodations do not fundamentally alter the program or compromise patient safety. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers are healthcare professionals who play a critical role in assisting physicians with the diagnosis of medical conditions by performing and evaluating diagnostic ultrasound examinations and assisting with certain interventional procedures. As part of this role, sonographers must demonstrate the cognitive, psychomotor, and professional behaviors necessary to safely perform required clinical duties. Students enrolled in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program must be able to perform the essential technical functions of the profession in a manner that ensures the safety and well-being of patients, coworkers, and themselves. The following technical standards describe the physical, mental, and behavioral abilities generally required for participation in the program and clinical training. These examples are not all-inclusive, and essential functions may be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Students must possess sufficient strength, coordination, mobility, and manual dexterity to perform the duties required during sonographic examinations and clinical training. These include the ability to: · Remain standing or walking for extended periods of time (often up to 80% of a work shift). · Use both hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders to maintain prolonged scanning positions and perform precise fine motor movements required for ultrasound imaging. · Lift, move, or assist with the movement of equipment or patients, which may require lifting or supporting 50 pounds or more, with or without assistance. · Assist in transferring patients from wheelchairs, stretchers, or beds and help position patients safely for examinations. · Push, pull, bend, reach, and stoop while positioning patients and maneuvering ultrasound equipment. · Use sensory abilities including vision, hearing, and touch to: o Accurately view ultrasound images and recognize color distinctions on monitors o Hear patient responses and equipment signals o Coordinate hand–eye movements required for scanning procedures o Recognize changes in a patient’s physical condition · Work effectively in low-lighting environments typical of ultrasound examination rooms. · Maintain the physical stamina required to safely perform assigned clinical duties.

Students must demonstrate the critical thinking, communication, and organizational skills necessary to perform diagnostic ultrasound procedures safely and effectively. These include the ability to: · Communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and non-verbally, with patients, instructors, physicians, and other healthcare professionals. · Explain procedures, obtain relevant patient information, and provide clear instructions to patients during examinations. · Follow instructions and clinical protocols accurately while working as part of a healthcare team. · Organize and perform sonographic procedures in the proper sequence according to established medical and program standards. · Observe, evaluate, and interpret ultrasound images to ensure proper technique, protocol adherence, and image quality. · Recognize abnormal findings or technical concerns and respond appropriately. · Think critically and apply problem-solving skills to optimize imaging quality and support accurate diagnostic outcomes. · Respond appropriately and efficiently to verbal instructions, patient needs, and clinical situations.

Students must demonstrate the emotional stability, professionalism, and interpersonal skills necessary to function in demanding healthcare environments. Students must be able to: · Provide compassionate care and emotional support to patients during sonographic procedures. · Interact respectfully and effectively with patients, families, faculty, and healthcare professionals. · Work with individuals who may be ill, injured, anxious, or in distress. · Maintain composure and perform effectively in stressful or time-sensitive clinical situations. · Adapt to changing clinical environments and patient care priorities. · Demonstrate professional behavior, integrity, and ethical conduct consistent with healthcare standards. · Show respect and cultural sensitivity toward individuals from diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and communities. · Uphold the professional values of compassion, service, accountability, and respect for patient dignity.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a federal law that protects the privacy and security of patients’ medical information. It requires healthcare providers, staff, and students to keep Protected Health Information (PHI) confidential. PHI includes any information that can identify a patient, such as names, birth dates, medical records, ultrasound images, diagnoses, or insurance information. Students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program at the Institute of Medical Ultrasound must follow HIPAA guidelines at all times during clinical training. This includes accessing patient information only when necessary for educational or patient care purposes, not discussing patient information in public areas, and never sharing patient information, images, or videos without authorization. Failure to follow HIPAA regulations may result in disciplinary action, removal from clinical training, dismissal from the program, and possible legal penalties.