Course Overview

This half-day Introduction to Doppler Assessment course is designed for nurses and healthcare assistants who are new to performing Doppler assessments in Primary Care.

The programme provides a structured introduction to arterial and venous physiology, the principles of Doppler ultrasound, and the safe measurement and interpretation of ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) results.

Doppler assessment plays a key role in the safe management of leg ulcers and decisions regarding compression therapy. This course supports clinicians in developing foundational knowledge and practical confidence in performing Doppler assessments within their professional scope of practice.

The session combines theory with practical demonstration and discussion.

Who Should Attend

This course is suitable for:

Practice Nurses
Community Nurses
Nurse Associates
Healthcare Assistants involved in wound care
Clinicians new to Doppler assessment

Suitable for both registered and non-registered staff working within an appropriate governance framework.

What This Course Covers

Physiology of arterial and venous circulation
Pathophysiology of arterial and venous insufficiency
Indications for Doppler assessment
Principles of Doppler ultrasound and sound wave technology
Equipment overview and safe use
Performing ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) measurement
Interpreting Doppler waveforms
Understanding normal and abnormal findings
Recognising limitations of Doppler assessment
When to escalate or refer
Documentation and governance considerations

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Describe the physiology of arterial and venous disease
Explain the principles underpinning Doppler ultrasound assessment
Outline the step-by-step process of performing a Doppler assessment
Interpret basic Doppler waveforms and ABPI results
Recognise the limitations of Doppler assessment
Identify when referral or further investigation is required
Understand the importance of supervised practice following training

Important Note

This course provides foundational knowledge and introductory practical skills in Doppler assessment. Competence in independent Doppler practice should be developed through supervised clinical experience in line with local governance policies.

Course Format

Duration: Half-day (approximately 3 hours)

Delivery: Face-to-face recommended (practical session)

Interactive format including:

Structured teaching
Practical demonstration
Case-based discussion
Reflection and action planning

Certification

Certificate of attendance provided for CPD and revalidation purposes.