Morehead State sonography program receives new equipment
Students in Morehead State University's Diagnostic Medical Sonography program will soon gain additional hands-on experience with specialized neonatal brain imaging thanks to new funding that will bring advanced simulation equipment to campus.
The program received a grant from the Association of Educators in Imaging and Radiologic Sciences, Inc., to purchase a neonatal head phantom, allowing students to practice imaging an infant's brain through the fontanelles, or "soft spots," before entering the clinical setting.
Previously, students learned neonatal head imaging solely through classroom instruction. The new simulation equipment will provide valuable laboratory experience while helping faculty measure student confidence and proficiency in performing these specialized ultrasound examinations.
"This phantom will allow for student laboratory simulation, meeting a recognized need to improve confidence, scanning skills, and the detection of abnormalities of the neonatal head before stepping into the clinical environment," said Jennifer Clark (Class of 2013, 2014), assistant professor of imaging sciences and program director.
Neonatal cranial ultrasound plays an important role in diagnosing serious conditions affecting infants, including brain hemorrhage, hydrocephalus, infection and ischemia. Providing students with realistic simulation training before entering clinical settings helps build the technical skills and confidence needed to recognize abnormalities while improving patient care.
Research has shown that simulation-based sonography training can significantly improve student confidence and scanning ability. In one study, 84% of participants reported increased confidence and improved imaging skills after practicing with a neonatal head phantom.
Faculty expect the new equipment to strengthen student preparation by allowing repeated practice in a controlled environment before working with patients. The project also aims to reduce anxiety among students and new graduates while enhancing the quality of care they provide during clinical experiences and throughout their careers.
Morehead State's Diagnostic Medical Sonography program prepares students for careers using ultrasound technology to assist physicians in diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of medical conditions. Through a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experiences, graduates develop the technical knowledge and patient care skills needed to succeed in today's healthcare environments.
The investment also reflects Morehead State's continued expansion of its imaging sciences programs. In addition to strengthening hands-on learning opportunities for Diagnostic Medical Sonography students, the University recently launched a Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology, providing graduates of radiologic science programs with an opportunity to advance their education and prepare for careers in advanced molecular imaging.
To learn more about the equipment, contact Imaging Sciences at imaging@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2180.
For more information about its programs, contact the Department of Health, Kinesiology, Imaging & Psychological Sciences, email kh@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2180.
