Advanced Nerve Conduction Studies-Fall Course

Description & Intended Audience:
This course provides you with an understanding of Electromyograms (EMGs) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and how they are used in neurodiagnostic medicine. We will study and review basic electrical theory, instrumentation, peripheral nerve anatomy and physiology, recording methods, and waveforms recognition with clinical correlations. You will emphasize the safety of the patient. In the lab you will learn the basics of nerve and muscle stimulation and recording, using surface electrodes. This is a combined lecture and lab course. Topics are presented by the instructor with student skill-based learning and practice, an essential part of the course. There will also be small group activities.

Objectives:

• Describe the basic principles of electricity and how they apply to nerve conduction studies
• Describe instrumentation and controls that aid in nerve conduction testing
• Demonstrate an understanding of peripheral nerve anatomy and physiology
• Describe the various measurements, calculations and test parameters vital in NCS testing
• Demonstrate the ability to record the most common studies of most labs
• Demonstrate the ability to record infrequently performed studies
• Describe the Needle EMG and the role of the technologist
• Demonstrate an understanding of diseases and disorders of the peripheral nervous system