NVCC
COLLEGE-WIDE COURSE CONTENT SUMMARY
RAD 110 - IMAGING
EQUIPMENT AND PROTECTION (3 CR.)
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Discusses basic components
of a radiographic unit, principles of x-ray production, principles of image
receptors, automatic processing, film evaluation and concepts in radiation
protection and radiobiology. Lecture 3 hours per week.
GENERAL COURSE PURPOSE
This course is a component
of a career certificate that is designed for allied health personnel to
receive limited instruction in radiography. At the completion of this course,
the student will understand the basic aspects of radiographic equipment
and radiation protection.
ENTRY LEVEL COMPETENCIES
The student must satisfactorily
complete the English and math placement examinations. The student must
score at the level of English 111 and Math 120.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
A. Identify the operating
console
B. Discuss the x-ray
tube construction, warm-up procedure and operation of locks and controls
C. Identify the table,
movements, bucky operation and tube-film alignment
D. Identify the proper
handling and maintenance of a cassette
E. State several different
film/screen combinations and discuss their characteristics
F. Identify the components
of automatic film processing to include:
1. feed tray
2. developer
3. fixer
4. wash
5. dryer
G. Discuss the procedure
for processor maintenance and quality assurance programs
H. Discuss contrast,
density and geometric principles of sharpness in relation to imaging
I. Discuss the use
of a technique chart
J. Identify the components
of an automatic exposure system
K. Discuss the use
of optimal kilovoltage
L. State several biological
effects of radiation
M. Identify methods
of minimizing radiation exposure to patients to include:
1. shielding
2. beam restrictions
3. film/screen combination
N. Identify methods of
minimizing exposure to personnel to include:
1. time, distance,
shielding
2. protective devices
O. Discuss considerations
for the pregnant patient and employee
P. Discuss the methods
of radiation exposure monitoring
MAJOR TOPICS TO BE
INCLUDED
A. Components of a
basic radiographic unit
B. General Principles
of image receptors
C. Automatic film
processing
D. Fundamentals of
radiographic film quality
E. Definition of contrast
and detail
F. Technique selection
G. Biological effects
of radiation
H. Radiation Protection
Techniques for patients and personnel
I. Exposure monitoring
Revised 10/98
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