CAQ-CVTS study guide
CAQ-CVTS · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The CAQ-CVTS (Certified Associate in Quantitative Vascular Technology and Sonography) is a multiple-choice credential aimed at entry- to mid-level vascular sonographers and technologists who perform and interpret noninvasive vascular studies. It is designed for candidates who want to demonstrate working command of both the technical craft - probe selection, Doppler settings, spectral waveform interpretation - and the clinical reasoning that turns a waveform into a report. The CAQ-CVTS study guide has 7 sections and about 2,059 words.
01Vascular Physics and Instrumentation
This domain tests the physical principles behind B-mode, spectral, color, and power Doppler, plus the instrument controls used to obtain valid vascular measurements. The Doppler equation is Δf = (2 f0 v cosθ)/c.
348 words, about 2 min02Cerebrovascular Testing and Interpretation
This domain tests carotid and vertebral duplex acquisition, waveform interpretation, stenosis grading, and recognition of hemodynamic confounders. Identify the ICA by its low-resistance waveform, larger caliber, and posterior/lateral course; the ECA is high resistance, has branches, and shows temporal-tap pulsatility.
305 words, about 2 min03Peripheral Arterial Testing and Interpretation
This domain covers physiologic arterial testing: ankle-brachial index (ABI), segmental pressures, pulse volume recording (PVR), exercise testing, and waveform interpretation. Rest supine 5-10 minutes.
280 words, about 1 min04Peripheral Venous Testing and Interpretation
This domain tests lower-extremity venous duplex for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), valvular incompetence, and venous hemodynamics. DVT diagnosis relies on gray-scale compression.
272 words, about 1 min05Abdominal and Visceral Vascular Testing
This domain covers duplex evaluation of the abdominal aorta, renal arteries, mesenteric arteries, and visceral and transplant vasculature. Perform renal artery duplex fasting.
294 words, about 1 min06Dialysis Access and Preoperative Vascular Mapping
This domain tests preoperative vein and artery mapping, access surveillance, and interpretation of fistula and graft dysfunction. Preoperative mapping assesses arterial inflow, venous continuity, and compressibility.
263 words, about 1 min07Patient Care, Safety, and Professional Standards
This domain tests safe, ethical, patient-centered vascular ultrasound practice, including infection control, bioeffects, ergonomics, privacy, and documentation. Obtain informed consent for invasive or contrast procedures and explain the examination.
297 words, about 1 min