BBO Training

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