Learner Outcomes

By the end of this course learners should be able to:

• Discuss the origins of IONM as a profession in North America and how it has evolved over time.
• Describe the major function(s) of IONM and how it fits into the larger healthcare picture as an integral member of the surgical team.
• Explain the basic principles of how bioelectric (neural) signals are generated and recorded from the human body.
• Describe electrode features and the principles of proper placement.
• Describe the basic components of a neuromonitoring device including amplifiers and filters.
• Describe how current flows in a simple electronic circuit.
• Discuss basic characteristics of neural signals and how they are processed for display on neuromonitoring device computer screens.
• Understand basic intraoperative troubleshooting techniques to minimize electrical noise and optimize neural signal acquisition and display.

Course Objectives

This course is designed to provide a broad overview of IONM as a profession and then delve into the electrophysiological principles that form its foundation.

In this course, students will learn about:

• stimulation and recording from the nervous system and how to use technology to capture and analyze the responses
• basic electronic circuitry and how bioelectric (neural) signals are detected, amplified, filtered and displayed onscreen
• how to troubleshoot technical problems when encountering them in the operating room

The course is divided into 12 learning modules (sections) some of which are further subdivided into learning units. Each unit of instruction will be presented with learning objectives as guidance and to emphasize key concepts.

Evaluation Method

Online quiz after each module, final multiple choice online exam

Intended For

Health professionals who are or will be working in an intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring role.

Note:

Only full CANM members are permitted to register for this course without first applying for the Certificate Program.