Why candidates fail the DMU.

Abstract

In conclusion, candidates need to prepare themselves thoroughly in their knowledge of anatomy and practical techniques: where pathology will influence anatomy and how to adjust their technique to account for this, as well as technical difficulties in imaging. During the examination the candidate requires to read carefully the questions and ensure that he or she understands them. Careful planning of an answer particularly so as to ensure that salient points appear in the relevant sections would be time well spent. Finally, contrary to widespread opinion, few candidates fail on the basis of poor answers to what have been described as more esoteric questions. The most disappointing aspect of the Diploma of Medical Ultrasound Examination is the consistently poor answers to questions about obstetric subjects. Candidates need to know what measurements are used in obstetrics, why they are used, what they are used for and what their limitations are. The candidate who understands fetal growth and development, fetal measurement, who has a good knowledge of sectional anatomy, and who demonstrates a knowledge of technique that will allow the proper demonstration of normal anatomy and pathology, is unlikely to complain 'I can't believe I failed the Practical Applications paper'.