The ability to correctly analyse, interpret and understand a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) and background theory is crucial in a professional cardiac diagnostic role. Comprehensive ECG analysis and interpretation can provide vital information about the location and nature of heart disease.

Students will be required to recall relevant theoretical concepts as well as perform accurate ECG interpretation following a methodological approach as outlined in lectures.  The Online Quiz will assess all ECG content in weeks 1-5 inclusive.

Students will have 60 minutes to complete the quiz once it is started.

• This assessment is open book. You may benefit from having normal electrocardiographic reference ranges and a calculator available when attempting the quiz.
• This assessment is to be undertaken as an individual. As with all other university assessments, colluding with other students on non-group work tasks is considered academic misconduct, and may lead to action being taken by the Deputy Dean of Learning and Teaching HMAS.

It is important that you commence the Online Quiz before 7:00 pm (AEST) on Friday the 25th of April 2025. If you have not completed the test by this time, your test may be submitted incomplete or with no answers. Please note:

• Once started, the quiz cannot be paused or restarted
• Only one attempt is permitted
• The Online Quiz with automatically close at 8:00 pm (AEST) on Friday the 25th of April 2025.
   

In the absence of an approved extension, the ECG Online Quiz cannot be completed at a later time.

Students are reminded that IT support from the university Information and Technology Division (TASAC) is only available during AEST business hours.

• If attempt issues occur outside of business hours, students should immediately email the Unit Coordinator documenting difficulties.
• Advice should include the date and time of the incident and a screenshot from the PC display if an error is evident.
• Incidents will be considered on a case-by-case basis. There is no guarantee extra quiz attempts will be offered.

Students are advised to refer to the 'Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)' document for additional university assessment guidelines.

Students will be assessed on their ability to recall theory and accurately interpret a 12-lead ECG using the methodological approach available on Moodle. Marks will be awarded based on the student's ability to:

• Recall 12-lead ECG theory
• Analyse calibration settings;
• Analyse cardiac rhythm, rate, and axis;
• Identify common arrhythmias; and
• Utilise correct terminology in interpreting ECG waveforms, segments, intervals, and associated anomalies.

The Online Quiz will be accessible through the assessment tab on Moodle.

This written assessment task requires you to explore a range of common cardiovascular pathologies. You will analyse provided clinical information, including the outcomes of a variety of cardiac diagnostic testing procedures. Your conclusions will be used to confirm patient diagnosis and strategise plausible management strategies.

Case Study:
The patient is a 22-year-old male with a body surface area (BSA) 1.8m2. He presented with dizzy spells, palpitations and occasional chest pain. The general practitioner (GP) recorded his blood pressure at 147/85mmHg. To evaluate the cardiac cause of these symptoms, the GP has ordered a cardiac ultrasound and a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG). The GP is concerned that the patient may be suffering from one of two cardiac conditions:

1. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with outflow tract obstruction (HOCM) or  
2. hypertensive heart disease. 

Both conditions could explain the patient’s presenting symptoms, making it crucial to exclude these differential diagnoses.

Selected diagnostic imaging and testing outcomes can be viewed on the unit Moodle site under the Assessment tile.

Considering the 2D echocardiographic findings presented: 

1. Which cardiac condition (HOCM or hypertensive heart disease) does the patient likely have? Justify your answer.
2. Discuss the aetiology of this cardiac condition.
3. Explain why or how this condition may have caused the patient's presenting symptoms.
4. Discuss the pathophysiology of this cardiac condition.
5. Describe the 12-lead ECG findings commonly associated with this condition. Explain why these findings occur.  
6. Quantify the left ventricular mass and identify any erroneous echocardiographic measurement data presented. Include rationale for your conclusions. Discuss the pattern distribution of left ventricular hypertrophy in this patient.
7. Discuss the other 2D and M-Mode echocardiographic features of this cardiac condition evident in the case study.
8. Briefly discuss one way in which this cardiac condition may be managed. 

Word Count 1400 (+/- 10%)

The written assessment must be presented in a scholarly manner. Accurate spelling and grammar, use of discipline-specific language, paraphrasing and referencing including intext citation must be demonstrated.

Research for this assessment task is to be limited to:

• The literature sources provided on the unit Moodle eReading list (including prescribed textbooks)
• No more than three (3) additional independently sourced journal articles.

Students are permitted to use generative AI tools to gain a better understanding of their assignment topics.  However, students are strictly prohibited from using generative AI to write any part of their reports or assignments. All submitted work must be the student's own original writing.

The reference list is not included in the word count. Content beyond the word limit will not be marked.

Further information regarding the task descriptor and assessment criteria can be viewed in the Unit Profile, published under the information tab at the top left-hand side of this Moodle site.
Students are advised to review and utilise the "Written Task Rubric" document. 

A detailed marking rubric is published on the ECHO12006 Moodle site, with grading based on the student's ability to:

• Analyse and discuss cardiovascular findings;
• Research and evaluate topics;
• Apply academic referencing protocols;
• Apply scholarly presentation standards; and
• Apply critical reflection to practice.

The Echocardiographic Skills Assessment is comprised of two parts— Part A 'Practical' and Part B 'Measurement Workbook'. Part A involves the completion of a standard M-mode and two-dimensional echocardiographic protocol. Part B involves completing the ECHO12006 Laboratory Measurement Workbook.

Students will be assessed according to the Assessment of Readiness for Clinical (ARC) tools, which are available on the unit Moodle site. These documents detail performance criteria the student must demonstrate competence in to pass the assessment. Student competence is assessed in relation to the expectations specific to this unit of study. Students enrolled in ECHO12006 are working towards the attainment of a 'Novice' level of competency, as detailed in the ARC tools.

PART A - Practical

Part A of the Echocardiography Skills Assessment incorporates both a Professional and Technical component and requires students to perform a complete M-mode and two-dimensional echocardiographic examination using ultrasound equipment. Students have 70 minutes in total to complete both the Professional and Technical components.

Professional Component

The professional component of the assessment evaluates performance aspects of the sonographic exam such as communication (verbal, non-verbal, and written), professional behaviour, ergonomics, and patient care skills. This encompasses an assessment of pre-scan, scanning, and post-scan skills.

Technical Component

The technical component of the assessment evaluates the student's scanning technique, image optimisation, and ability to complete a M-mode and two-dimensional echocardiogram within a reasonable set time to a 'Novice' level of competency.

The ARC tool details the required imaging sequence and performance criteria cues.

Except for panning or sector sweeps, which are critiqued live or via video recording moderation, the collection of images stored by the student represent the echocardiographic examination performed.

At the end of the examination, the supervising tutor will acquire a variety of representative images. These images will be used during marking and moderation to ascertain achievable image quality.

Note: Part A (Practical) of the Echocardiography Skills Assessment will be video recorded for moderation purposes. The videos will not be released to students for review.

All students are required to make themselves available to act as a patient model for peer assessments. Students must additionally make themselves available for re-sit assessments if requested by the unit coordinator.

In the absence of an approved extension, this assessment cannot be completed at a later time.

Students will receive a FAIL for this assessment if it is not completed by the scheduled date and time and there is no approved extension.

Should a student fail this assessment, there will be only ONE opportunity to re-sit the failed component (professional and/or technical) of the assessment item.

PART B - Measurement Workbook

Part B of the Echocardiography Skills Assessment requires students to apply best practice guidelines when undertaking routine M-mode and two-dimensional measurement on echocardiographic images using Q-Station discipline-specific software. 

The workbook assessment task requires students to engage in six (6) laboratory exercises designed to develop their echocardiography measurement skills. There are six compulsory laboratory sessions where students will be required to take precise measurements and input their measured images and values into the designated fields within the workbook. Each laboratory session concludes with several questions, which the student must complete to demonstrate their understanding. Students may complete the lab manual questions during the lab sessions or later in their own time.

The final workbook task requires students to perform a series of measurements and then critique their measurements for accuracy and precision. They will also analyse and critique a set of provided measurements, identifying potential errors and suggesting improvements. 

This workbook aims to develop student's accuracy in measurement technique, emphasise the importance of precise documentation, and improve their analytical skills through question completion.

If a student does not attend a lab session for any reason they are still required to complete the lab manual exercises and submit the lab manual by the due date.

Students are advised to refer to the 'Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)' document for additional university guidelines regarding assessments.

Students will receive a FAIL for this assessment if it is not completed by the scheduled date and time and there is no approved extension.

Should a student fail this assessment, there will be only ONE opportunity to re-submit the failed component of the assessment item.

Students will be assessed using the documents below. Students are advised to carefully review these documents which are available on the unit Moodle site.

• Part A Practical Assessment of Readiness for Clinical (ARC) Tool
• ECHO12006 Echocardiography Measurement Workbook. Comprising of laboratory sessions 1-6 and the final measurement task.
  
  

PART A - Practical

To pass Part A of this assessment, a student must be deemed competent in both the Professional and Technical components. To pass these components, ALL criteria must be demonstrated to the appropriate level of competence as detailed in the ARC tools.

The professional and technical components are graded separately so that if one is passed and the other is not, only the failed component must be repeated to pass.

There is only ONE opportunity to re-sit either component of this assessment item.

PART B - Measurement Workbook

Students are required to demonstrate their understanding of each lab task by performing the assigned tasks and questions, answering the assigned question for each task. The laboratory manual questions can be attempted during the lab session, and may be completed in the student's own time. Questions should be answered concisely.

Measurement images are to be recorded and stored as per instructions in the "unpacking the laboratory" video in the Assessment tile in Moodle.

This assessment will be marked as a PASS or FAIL. Students must complete all tasks in the workbook to obtain a PASS grade. 

Failure to submit the completed lab manual by the due date and time will result in a grade of FAIL.

There is no option of an extension or late submission for the lab manual assessment (unless approved extension is obtained via the Moodle Extension Request System, with appropriate documentation).

Mock Examination

Students will be provided with a single opportunity to attempt the Echocardiography Skills Assessment under mock examination conditions. Individual feedback will be provided to students after completing the mock assessment. Students will receive a completed MOCK Part A (Practical) ARC tool. Scanning feedback will be provided verbally by the tutor supervising each individual student mock practical scanning assessment.

The mock assessment will be delivered as part of the routine laboratory sessions. Note, there is no opportunity for rescheduling of missed laboratory sessions.

The purpose of this assessment is to ensure that students from the echocardiography course are well-equipped to embody the high standards of professionalism that are expected from CQUniversity students while on clinical placement blocks. Professional behaviour is a critical part of any medical imaging profession and encompasses the manner in which we treat our colleagues, patients and the professional settings and equipment we interact with. Exemplary professional behaviour is highly valued by clinical supervisors and this information may be used to endorse students for placements if requested by clinical sites.

This assessment requires students to treat each of the lab sessions as a scheduled "work shift" and to exhibit high-quality professional attributes. This assessment is based on a continuous and ongoing evaluation of student application and attendance during labs, and behaviour exhibited during the time spent studying this unit up until the completion of all formal assessments. Aspects of professionalism will be assessed across multiple levels including, but not limited to: maintenance of laboratory documentation, Moodle forums, online tutorials, lab sessions (both manned and unmanned), interactions with peers and staff, social media, phone calls and all official correspondence with university staff, peers and the community.

Instances of substandard professional behaviour will result in a Lapse in Professionalism (LiP) point being awarded to the offending student. Should a student acquire more than three (3) LiPs, this assessment will automatically be graded a FAIL.

LiPs may be issued in three different categories:

1. Professional behaviour towards colleagues and staff
2. Professional behaviour towards patients
3. Professional behaviour towards professional settings and equipment.

Further information is detailed in the Expected Professional Behaviour and LiP Allocation document, which is available on the Moodle site. Students are encouraged to review this document to be sure of behavioural expectations. Students should also be familiar with the CQUniversity Student Charter as well as the Australasian Sonographers Association (ASA) Code of Conduct (available online).

If an unprofessional attitude or behaviour is reported by fellow classmates and not witnessed by a staff member, a written warning detailing the allegations will be issued to the student and the student's response will be documented. If further evidence of ongoing unprofessional behaviour arises then a LiP may be awarded. If any exhibited attitude or behaviour is deemed as unsafe or inappropriate, this assessment will be graded as a FAIL at the discretion of the unit coordinator.

Absenteeism

Skills labs for this unit are mandatory. Students must advise the unit coordinator before the start of compulsory labs if unable to attend. Failure to notify staff (via email or phone) before the start of a missed lab will result in a LiP (Lapse in Professionalism) except in extraordinary circumstances. Lateness to labs may result in a LiP, whether notice is given or not. Labs missed for a valid reason (eg. illness or injury) require supporting documentation. Medical or health-related certificates must be in the approved formats articulated in the CQUniversity Assessment Policy and Procedure (HE Coursework), section 5.

Any missed labs must be clearly marked on the Lab Attendance Page and Reflective Feedback Form. A tutor's signature is not required in this case. There is no opportunity to 'make up' missed lab sessions.

Peer-Assisted Practice (PAP) Sessions

Students are offered regular peer-assisted practice sessions, which are scheduled through Google Doc links on the Moodle site. Penalties will be applied if instructions and rules disclosed on these documents are not adhered to. Failure to abide by these regulations may result in a LiP and removal of attendance privileges.

Tutor Assisted Practice (TAP) Sessions

Students are offered several TAP sessions throughout the term, which are scheduled through Google Doc links on the Moodle site. A tutor will be present to offer direct assistance to students in a group setting.

This assessment incorporates maintenance of pertinent lab documentation including lab attendance and any Lapse in Professionalism (LiP) points accrued throughout unit delivery. To pass this unit students need to consistently display a high standard of professional behaviour including, but not limited to, punctual lab attendance. All interactions with staff and peers pertaining to this unit will be treated as a replica of the clinical work environment, and students are expected to demonstrate the professional behaviour expected in a formal work environment. No more than three (3) Lapses in
Professionalism are permitted to pass the unit.

Students are required to complete the following documentation and submit to Moodle in PDF format. All documents are available on the unit Moodle page.

1. A signed Lab Agreement Form (To be completed in the first laboratory session in week 1).
2. A signed Consent Form - Sonographic Examination for Teaching Purposes (To be completed in the first laboratory session in week 1).
3. A completed and signed Lab Attendance and Professional Behaviour Assessment form (signed and uploaded to Moodle by Thursday week 12).

The "Laboratory Agreement Form" and "Consent Form", as well as the Mandatory Laboratory Induction, must be completed in the first laboratory session in week 1. Students cannot participate in laboratory activities until these documents are completed.

To PASS this assessment, all documentation must be completed appropriately, legible, labelled appropriately and submitted by the due date and time.

The ability to set goals, self-reflect, and take advantage of feedback, are important to aid the progress of knowledge and skill development. These abilities also address industry requirements, whereby professionals must perform continuing professional development (CPD) activities.

Students are to develop goal-setting, reflection, and feedback skills through weekly activities:

1. Formative Feedback Forms (one for each laboratory session; a total of six forms). Each form must include goal-setting and self-reflection, tutor feedback, and tutor signature. The feedback form must be completed before leaving the associated laboratory session.
2. Mock Assessment Reflection. This form must include a reflection on areas of strength and areas for improvement in preparation for the Skills Assessment.

The "Formative Feedback and Self-Reflection Forms" are available on the ECHO12006 Moodle site.

The Formative Feedback and Self-Reflection document is available on the Moodle site and must be presented to the supervising tutor at each of the tutorial lab sessions.

To PASS this assessment, all documentation must be completed appropriately and submitted by the due date and time.

All documents must be legible, labelled appropriately and uploaded in PDF format. 

This test will be a written test performed in-class with closed-book conditions at the campus of your enrolment. Room details will be published on the unit Moodle site.

If you arrive late, you may enter the test room up to 30 minutes after the start of the test; you will still be required to finish your test at the preset completion time. You will not be allowed entry more than 30 minutes after the test starts.

In the absence of an approved extension, you cannot complete this assessment at a later time, and you will receive a mark of zero (0) for the assessment if you have not completed it by the scheduled date and time.

This test will be conducted with invigilation and formal examination conditions as detailed in the CQU Assessment Procedures.  As per CQU Assessment Procedures, this task is to be completed at the timetabled date and time. There is no opportunity to apply a late penalty.

Students are advised to refer to the 'Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework) document for additional university guidelines regarding assessments.

The In-Class Test will assess your understanding of all echocardiography and cardiac catheterisation content presented in this unit. Questions may be drawn from lectures, additional resources provided (e.g. prescribed readings) or tutorial presentations. 

• There will be 10 minutes perusal time.
• The test duration will be 180 minutes.
• You will be required to answer a variety of online questions. Questions may include multiple choice, short answer, essay style or image interpretation format.
• Question marks are allocated based on the accuracy, depth, and breadth of required responses. The number of marks allocated for each question will be indicated within the In-Class Test.
• It is recommended that you have a simple calculator available when sitting the test.

This assessment will be attempted individually. Colluding with other students on non-group work tasks is considered academic misconduct. Any breaches of academic misconduct may lead to action being taken by the Deputy Dean of Learning and Teaching, HMAS.

The allocated number of marks for each question is indicated on the In-Class Test paper. Marks are allocated based on accuracy, depth and breadth of the required response.

Marks allocated to student responses will reflect the student's ability to Evaluate cardiac imaging findings;

• Analyse clinical information;
• Discuss cardiac procedures; and
• Use discipline-specific terminology.