VSSSA Vascular Sonography SSA Exam
Question 1. What is the primary purpose of obtaining informed consent before performing a vascular
sonography procedure?
A) To increase patient anxiety
B) To protect the equipment
C) To respect patient autonomy and legal rights
D) To reduce scan time
Answer: C
Explanation: Informed consent ensures the patient is aware of the procedure, risks, and alternatives,
respecting their autonomy and fulfilling legal and ethical requirements.
Question 2. Which law protects patient confidentiality in the United States?
A) OSHA
B) HIPAA
C) ADA
D) FDA
Answer: B
Explanation: HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) sets standards for protecting
patient health information privacy.
Question 3. What action should a sonographer take if a patient refuses an ultrasound exam?
A) Persuade them forcefully
B) Document the refusal and notify the referring physician
C) Ignore the refusal and proceed
D) Leave the patient unattended
Answer: B
Explanation: Patient autonomy must be respected; refusals should be documented, and the referring
physician must be informed.
Question 4. What is considered negligence in vascular sonography?
A) Completing all protocols
B) Failing to identify a DVT when obvious on images
C) Explaining procedures to patients
D) Maintaining equipment
Answer: B
Explanation: Negligence is the failure to provide the standard of care, such as missing an obvious
diagnosis.
Question 5. Which of the following is a legal term meaning “the thing speaks for itself” in malpractice
cases?
A) Res ipsa loquitur
B) Subpoena
C) Stare decisis
D) In loco parentis
Answer: A
Explanation: “Res ipsa loquitur” applies when negligence is inferred from the very nature of the accident
or injury.
