ARDMS Echo Echo Report Interpretation and Quality Assurance 2

Question 1

Which of the following is a potential consequence of inadequate lateral resolution in echocardiography?

Accepted Answer

Inability to distinguish two structures side-by-side at the same depth

Answer

Lateral resolution determines the ability to distinguish two adjacent structures at the same depth; poor lateral resolution merges structures side-by-side.

Question 2

In a standard echocardiogram report, what does 'diastolic dysfunction, Grade II (pseudonormal)' mean?

Accepted Answer

Impaired relaxation with elevated filling pressures (LA pressure elevated, E/A appears normal 0.8–2.0)

Answer

Grade II (pseudonormal) diastolic dysfunction mimics normal mitral inflow (E/A 0.8–2.0) but has elevated filling pressures, unmasked by tissue Doppler and pulmonary vein analysis.

Question 3

Under ARDMS Echo exam content, 'Instrumentation' includes knowledge of which ultrasound principle?

Accepted Answer

Piezoelectric effect and transducer beam characteristics

Answer

The piezoelectric effect — conversion of electrical energy to sound waves and vice versa — is fundamental to ultrasound transducer function and ARDMS instrumentation content.

Question 4

What is the recommended frame rate for optimal 2D echocardiographic image acquisition?

Accepted Answer

50–80 frames per second

Answer

A frame rate of 50–80 fps is recommended for 2D echo to capture cardiac motion without sacrificing spatial resolution.

Question 5

Which statement best describes the use of intravenous echocardiographic contrast agents (e.g., Definity, Optison)?

Accepted Answer

They opacify the LV cavity to improve endocardial border definition when ≥2 contiguous segments are not visible on unenhanced images

Answer

LV opacification agents are indicated when ≥2 contiguous LV segments are suboptimally visualized, significantly improving endocardial border delineation for volume and EF measurement.

ARDMS Echo - American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography Echocardiography Practice Test

ARDMS Echo - American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography Echocardiography Practice Test

ARDMS Echo Echo Report Interpretation and Quality Assurance 2