NVCC COLLEGE-WIDE COURSE CONTENT SUMMARY
RAD 234 - BREAST IMAGING/INSTRUMENTATION (1 CR.)
 

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Discusses the dedicated radiography equipment necessary for breast imaging. Includes proper technical factors, radiation protection techniques, and proper accessory equipment. Lecture 1 hour per week.

GENERAL COURSE PURPOSE

This course is a component of a career certificate which is designed as a multi-competency module to provide expertise in mammography to registered or registry eligible technologists. The completion of the career certificate will prepare individuals for employment as mammographers in hospitals and imaging centers. This course will fulfill the professional continuing education requirements required by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

ENTRY LEVEL COMPETENCIES

This course is offered to students who have graduated from an approved radiologic technology program and are registered or registry eligible according to the standards provided by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

A. Identify the components of a mammographic unit
B. Discuss how each component contributes to the mammographic image
C. Differentiate between single phase, three phase and high frequency generators
D. Discuss film-screen combinations and their function in the imaging system
E. Describe various processing methods
F. Correlate processing the image quality, patient dose and technique
G. Identify the proper selection of technical factors
H. Identify various film artifact
I. Identify correct film contrast and density
J. Identify and review correct identification on images
K. Discuss the process of correcting a sub-optimal image
L. Explain the set-up for localization procedure
M. Describe specimen radiography methods
N. Discuss lesion localization procedures
O. Discuss ultrasound in special breast imaging
P. Describe cyst aspiration procedures
Q. Discuss needle aspiration biopsy and core biopsy MAJOR TOPICS TO BE INCLUDED A. Mammographic Equipment
B. Image recording
C. Image quality
D. Techniques in film/screen mammography
E. Special procedures in mammography Revised 10/98
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