RAD 150 RADIOLOGIC EXPOSURE TECHNIQUE II APPROVED 12/O2/2011 EFFECTIVE SPRING 2013-14
Prefix & Number RAD 150 Course Title: Radiologic Exposure Technique II & Lab Purpose of this submission: New Change/Updated Retire If this is a change, what is being changed? (Check all that apply) Update Prefix Title Format Change Prerequisite Course Description Course Number Credits Competencies Textbook/Reviewed Competencies-no changes needed Does this course require additional fees? No Yes If so, please explain. Is there a similar course in the course bank? No Yes (Please identify) Articulation: Is this course or an equivalent offered at other two and four-year universities in Arizona? No Yes (Identify the college, subject, prefix, number and title: This course is offered in radiography programs in the state. Is this course identified as a Writing Across the Curriculum course? No Yes Course Textbook, Materials and Equipment Textbook(s) Title Principles of Radiographic Imaging, text Author(s) Carlton, Richard R.; Adler, Arlene M. Publisher Delmar Cengage Learning Barnes & Noble Price New 213.65 Used 160.25 Software/ Equipment Title Principles of Radiographic Imaging, workbook Author(s) Carlton, Richard R.; Adler, Arlene M. Publisher Delmar Cengage Learning Barnes & Noble Price New 93.00 Used 69.75 Course Assessments Description of Possible Course Assessments (Essays, multiple choice, etc.) Exams standardized for this course? Midterm Final Other (Please specify): Pilot registry exams Mid-term and Final exams with multiple choice, matching and fill in the blanks; pilot registry exam; performing the lab experiment and documenting the conclusions in the workbook and scientific method chart Are exams required by the department? No Yes If Yes, please specify: Mid-term and Final exams with multiple choice, matching and fill in the blanks; Pilot registry exam
Where can faculty members locate or access the required standardized exams for this course? Student Outcomes: Identify the general education goals for student learning that is a component of this course. Director of Radiologic Technology Office The ability to create quality images by understanding the technical factors, beam restriction and minimizing patient dose. Students will analyze images for optimal density and contrast; understanding manual and automatic exposure control. Check all that apply: 1. Communicate effectively. a. Read and comprehend at a college level. b. Write effectively in a college setting. 2. Demonstrate effective quantitative reasoning and problem solving skills. Method of Assessment Mid-term and Final exams with multiple choice, matching and fill in the blanks; performing the lab experiment and documenting the conclusions in the workbook and scientific method chart Demonstrations, simulations, image analysis, sharing content, case studies, quizzes, exams; Pilot exams from the Registry; demonstration of competence in performing the lab experiments, simulations, image analysis, sharing content 3. Demonstrate effective qualitative reasoning skills. Demonstrations, simulations, sharing content, image analysis, case studies, quizzes, exams; Pilot exams from the Registry; demonstration of competence in performing the lab experiments, simulations, image analysis, sharing content 4. Apply effective methods of inquiry. a. Generate research paper by gathering information from varied sources, analyzing data and organizing information into a coherent structure. b. Employ the scientific method. 5. Demonstrate sensitivity to diversity a. Experience the creative products of humanity. b. Describe alternate historical, cultural, global perspectives. Students will complete the chart documenting their understanding of the scientific method
COURSE INFORMATION Initiator: Maryann Shepherd Date of proposal to Curriculum Sub-Committee: December 2, 2011 Effective Semester/Year Spring 2014 Prefix & Number: RAD 150 5th Program Semester Full Title: Radiographic Exposure Technique II & Lab Short Title: Technique II & Lab Catalog Course Description: The student radiographer will be introduced to the principles of digital imaging and the factors necessary to produce quality radiographic images; students will also learn to analyze the radiograph using an effective image critique method. Students will apply exposure techniques in the lab to experiment with density, contrast, distortion and collimation, in order to better understand the best practices for diagnostic quality images. Credit Hours: 4 Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 3 Prerequisite(s) Successful completion of the previous semester. Co-requisite(s) RAD 140-170 are in the same cohort and must be taken during the same semester. Intended Course Goals By the end of the semester, students will be able to: 1. Analyzing the differences between analog and digital systems 2. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of digital radiography 3. Analyze exposure factors 4. Use an effective image critique method 5. Define quality assurance and quality control and discuss their relationship to excellence in radiography 6. Investigate the exposure latitude characteristics of a given CR 7. Demonstrate the effect of different subject densities and contrast on radiographic density 8. Demonstrate the effect of part/image receptor alignment central ray/part/image receptor alignment and central ray direction on shape distortion 9. Demonstrate the effects of kvp on image contrast 10. Demonstrate the effect of positioning errors on the image quality of automatic exposure control radiographs
Course Competencies and Objectives By the end of the semester, students will be able to: Competency 1 Analyzing the differences between analog and digital processing Objective 1..1 Describe the differences between analog and digital computers Objective 1.2 Describe the differences between programs and data Objective 1.3 State reasons why binary machine code is used in place of other languages Objective 1.4 Describe the basic function of a central processing unit, read-only memory, and random-access memory Objective 1.5 Describe the basic function of various memory storage and input and output devices Objective 1.6 Explain the basic function of an array processor Objective 1.7 Describe the process of digital image data acquisition Objective 1.8 Describe the effects of frequency, contrast, and noise on digital image quality Objective 1.9 Explain the function of digital image window level and width controls Competency 2 Explain the advantages and disadvantages of digital radiography Objective 2.1 Describe various digital radiography image receptor and detector systems Objective 2.2 Explain critical elements used in the different digital radiography systems Objective 2.3 Discuss limitations inherent in each of the currently available digital radiography systems Objective 2.4 Describe the process by which the digital radiography histogram is acquired and the display algorithm is applied to the collected data Objective 2.5 Explain why digital radiography systems have significantly greater latitude than conventional film-screen radiography systems Objective 2.6 Analyze elements of digital radiography systems that make them prone to violation of ALARA radiation protection concepts Objective 2.7 Explain the causes of several digital radiography artifact problems Competency 3 Explain Picture Archiving Objective 3.1 Discuss advantages of using PACS in a medical imaging department Objective 3.2 Explain why a PACS network may require a separate computer network from the one used throughout an institution Objective 3.3 Describe the various types of laser printers that can be used for digital images Objective 3.4 Explain soft-copy monitor display parameters Objective 3.5 Identify types of storage available for digital images Objective 3.6 Discuss the necessity for DICOM in medical imaging Competency 4 Analyze the image for density, contrast, distortion Objective 4.1 Describe the five phases of the imaging process Objective 4.2 Describe the pyramid problem of geometrical progression as it relates to radiographic image quality Objective 4.3 Apply the four steps of the diagnostic process to a clinical imaging problem Objective 4.4 Explain how image acceptance limits may fluctuate due to various external factors Competency 5 Assess density on various images Objective 5.1 Identify density as a prime component of the photographic properties controlling visibility of detail of radiographic image quality Objective 5.2 Define density/brightness Objective 5.3 Describe the effects of density changes on image appearance Objective 5.4 Describe the process of evaluating image density Objective 5.5 Explain why ma and time are the controlling factors of film density Objective 5.6 Explain how each influencing factor affects image density Objective 5.7 Assess density on various images Objective 5.8 Recommend appropriate adjustments to compensate for variation in the controlling and influencing factors that affect image density Competency 6 Describe the factors that affect image receptor (film) contrast Objective 6.1 Identify contrast as a prime component of the photographic properties controlling visibility of detail of image quality Objective 6.2 Explain the various terms used to describe contrast/dynamic range Objective 6.3 Define contrast and the factors that affect it
Objective 6.4 Describe the factors that affect image receptor (film) contrast Objective 6.5 Describe the factors that affect subject contrast Objective 6.6 Describe the effect of fog on contrast Objective 6.7 Describe the effects of contrast changes on image appearance Objective 6.8 Determine the technical factor changes necessary to achieve optimal contrast Objective 6.9 Assess contrast on various radiographic images Objective 6.10 Recommend appropriate adjustments to improve contrast under various conditions Objective 6.11 Explain why kilovoltage peak is the controlling factor of contrast Objective 6.12 Explain how each influencing factor affects contrast Competency 7 Analyze penumbra, quantum mottle and recorded detail Objective 7.1 Define recorded detail, including synonymous terms and derived units Objective 7.2 Explain the effect of various distances on recorded detail Objective 7.3 Describe the factors that affect penumbra/point spread function size Objective 7.4 Describe the effect of film/screen combinations on the resolution of recorded detail Objective 7.5 Discuss the relationship of the three intensifying screen factors to recorded detail Objective 7.6 Explain digital image receptor factors that control recorded detail Objective 7.7 Describe appropriate techniques to prevent patient motion Objective 7.8 Synthesize various geometrical factors into a clinical protocol for improving resolution Objective 7.9 Recommend techniques for reducing motion, including immobilization devices Competency 8 Explain distortion Objective 8.1 Define size and shape distortion Objective 8.2 Explain the effects of SID and OID on image distortion Objective 8.3 Discuss various methods of minimizing distortion through variation of SID and OID Objective 8.4 Explain why elongation and foreshortening are relational definitions Objective 8.5 Describe the routine relationships between central ran, anatomical part, and image receptor Objective 8.6 Explain the proper terms used to describe angulation direction and degree Objective 8.7 Differentiate distorted images from routine projections Objective 8.8 Calculate the magnification factor when give SID and SOD Objective 8.9 Calculate the actual size of an object when given the projected size, SID, and OID Objective 8.10 Describe adjustments of SID, and OID that will minimize magnification Objective 8.11 Describe adjustments of central ray, anatomical part, and image receptor that will minimize shape distortion Competency 9 Use an effective image critique method Objective 9.1 Discuss the elements of a diagnostic image as they relate to the art of image critique Objective 9.2 Identify the steps of the decision-making process Objective 9.3 Describe an effective image critique method, incorporating critical problem-solving skills Objective 9.4 Use an effective image critique method Objective 9.5 Explain the differences among technical factor problems, procedural factor problems, and equipment malfunctions Objective 9.6 Apply an effective image critique method to a wide range of problems specific to clinical situations beyond those presented in this chapter Competency 10 Define quality assurance and quality control and discuss their relationship to excellence in radiography Objective 10.1 Define quality assurance and quality control and discuss their relationship to excellence in radiography Objective 10.2 Describe the process of identifying imaging requirements, developing equipment specifications, selecting equipment, installing and testing equipment, and training the technical staff Objective 10.3 Describe the objectives and responsibilities of monitoring equipment performance Objective 10.4 Discuss primary automatic film processor quality control monitoring and maintenance procedures Objective 10.5 Discuss primary quality control tests for external radiation beam monitoring of diagnostic radiographic systems, fluoroscopic systems, tomographic systems and automatic exposure controls Objective 10.6 List primary quality control tests for miscellaneous ancillary equipment, including cassettes and view boxes Objective 10.7 Explain the rationale behind the data collection process and the basic analysis of a radiographic repeatrate study Objective 10.8 Describe a basic troubleshooting procedure
Competency 11 Discuss other exposure systems that have influenced radiographic technique Objective 11.1 Compare various exposure systems Objective 11.2 Describe the advantages and disadvantages of fixed and variable kvp systems Objective 11.3 Discuss other exposure systems that have influenced radiographic technique Objective 11.4 Explain why measurement of part thickness is critical to the accurate use of technique charts Objective 11.5 Describe the function of the radiographer when using automatic exposure control systems Objective 11.6 Describe how programmed exposure control systems function Objective 11.7 State the steps necessary to establish a technique chart Objective 11.8 Explain a basic phantom testing procedure Objective 11.9 Describe the process of selecting an optimal image range Objective 11.10 Extrapolate a technique chart from a limited number of phantom test images Objective 11.11 Describe the clinical trial and fine-tuning processes Competency 12 Understanding a fixed kvp technique Objective 12.1 Describe the principles of fixed kvp technique theory Objective 12.2 Discuss the primary advantages and disadvantages of fixed kvp technique systems Objective 12.3 Define optimal kilovoltage Objective 12.4 Explain how to establish fixed kvp for various subject parts Objective 12.5 Describe the steps in establishing a fixed kvp technique chart Objective 12.6 Synthesize a fixed kvp technique chart from control radiographs Competency 13 Calculate a kvp technique chart Objective 13.1 Describe a variable kilovoltage technique system Objective 13.2 Discuss the primary advantages and disadvantages of variable kvp technique systems Objective 13.3 State the 2 kvp rule Objective 13.4 Explain why more than a single kilovoltage scale is required Objective 13.5 Calculate new exposure factors from a single satisfactory exposure when mas ratios are provided Objective 13.6 Synthesize a stepped variable kvp technique chart from control images Competency 14 Explain the effect of AEC on image quality Objective 14.1 Explain why the art of automatic exposure control is the art of positioning Objective 14.2 Accurately identify configuration size, shape, and position for various brands of ionization chambers Objective 14.3 Describe how to modify image receptor exposure when using an automatic exposure control Objective 14.4 Describe various common subject density and subject contrast problems when using AECs Objective 14.5 Explain the effect of collimation on AEC image quality Objective 14.6 Provide solutions to minimum response time and backup time problems Objective 14.7 Explain how to modify the suggested technical factors on an anatomically programmed control unit Objective 14.8 Discuss the advisability of the creative use of AECs Competency 15 Analyzing exposure factors Objective 15.1 Discuss the limitations of standard conversion tables Objective 15.2 Explain the concept of direct and inverse relationships versus proportions Objective 15.3 Calculate appropriate new exposure factors for multiple changes in exposure factor variables Competency 16 Explain the function of digital image window level and width controls (24-2, p 123) Objective: Understand which controls operate the image window level and width Competency 17 Investigate the exposure latitude characteristics of a given CR system (25-1, p 125) Objective: Detect differences in the levels and assess the insufficient and excessive kvp Competency 18 Demonstrate the effect of common errors in obtaining and processing computed radiographic images (25-2, p 127) Objective: Obtain information about diagnostic quality, beam restriction, and scatter radiation Competency 19 Determine the approximate diagnostic image quality acceptance limits for screen/film receptors and digital radiographic systems (27-1, p 133) Objective: Analyze an image for diagnostic quality Competency 20 Demonstrate the effect of mas on image density for screen/film receptors (28-1, p 135) Objective: Understand mas and density Competency 21 Demonstrate the effects of kilovoltage on exposure/film density and the control of radiographic density by changing kvp and mas utilizing the 15% rule. (28-2, p 137) Objective: Understand the relationship between kvp and mas and the 15% rule
Competency 22 Demonstrate the effects of x-ray penetration in regard to adequate demonstration of the visibility of the object imaged using both screen/film and digital radiographic receptors (28-3, p 139) Objective: Compare images for density Competency 23 Demonstrate the effect of SID on radiographic density and the use of the exposure maintenance formula to control exposure/film density (28-4, p 141) Objective: Recognize the effect of SID on radiographic density Competency 24 Demonstrate the effect of different subject densities and contrast on radiographic density (28-6, p 145) Objective: Compare the resulting images for density Competency 25 Demonstrate the effects of kvp on image contrast (29-1, p 147) Objective: Calculate the image contrast to explain the difference between long-scale and short-scale contrast Competency 26 Demonstrate the effectiveness of radiographic grids in the improvement of image contrast (29-5, p 155) Objective: Draw conclusions about the effect of grids and grid ratio on image contrast Competency 27 Demonstrate the effect of object motion on recorded detail (30-4, p 163) Objective: Recognize motion Competency 28 Demonstrate the effect of OID and SID on size distortion (31-1, p 165) Objective: Calculate and record the magnification factor Competency 29 Demonstrate the effect of part/image receptor alignment central ray/part/image receptor alignment and central ray direction on shape distortion (31-2, p 169) Objective: Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of distortion Competency 30 Evaluate the alignment of the light field and central ray of the x-ray abeam and Bucky tray as well as the accuracy of the automatic collimation system (33-3, p 181) Objective: Identify the misalignment of the beam, Bucky and collimator on the images Competency 31 Demonstrate the effect of positioning errors on the image quality of automatic exposure control radiographs (37-2, p 221) Objective: Avoid positioning errors when using AEC Competency 32 Demonstrate the effects and control of scatter radiation on automatic exposure control radiographs (37-3, p 223) Objective: Produce improved recorded detail Competency 33 Demonstrate the effect of central ray alignment and distance on image quality during mobile procedures (39-1, p 231) Objective: Recognizing the relevance of alignment and a consistent distance Competency 34 Operate a fluoroscopic spot filming system (40-1, p 233) Objective: Describe at least one clinical examination for which each of the images would be most useful