RAD 240 Principles of Radiographic Imaging III

This course provides the student with knowledge of equipment and operating principles for radiographic, fluoroscopic, and mobile imaging. Skills in digital image acquisition and processing are enhanced. Digital image display, quality control, and quality assurance are also discussed.

Credits

2

Prerequisite

Prerequisite: RAD 141

See Course Syllabus

Course Number and Title:

RAD 240 Principles of Radiographic Imaging III

Campus Location

  • Georgetown
  • Wilmington

Effective Date

202553

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: RAD 141

Course Credits and Hours

2 credit(s)

2 lecture hours/week

0 lab hours/week

Course Description

This course provides the student with knowledge of equipment and operating principles for radiographic, fluoroscopic, and mobile imaging. Skills in digital image acquisition and processing are enhanced. Digital image display, quality control, and quality assurance are also discussed.

Additional Materials

None

Required Text(s)

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore - https://www.dtcc.edu/bookstores online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Disclaimer

None

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)

  1. Relate the basic principles of electricity to x-ray production. (CCC 1, 6; PGC 1, 4)
  2. Analyze the basic design features, imaging principles, and technical considerations for all general and mobile radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment. Describe the basic components of computed tomography and artificial intelligence. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)
  3. Diagram and describe the function of the components that make up the basic x-ray circuit and x-ray tube. (CCC 1, 2, 5, 6; PGC 1, 4)
  4. Describe the components of a quality management system and apply quality control measures to imaging equipment and accessories. CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 4)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Relate the basic principles of electricity to x-ray production.
    1. Define and state the unit of measurement for current, potential difference, and resistance.
    2. Discuss electrical safety features such as ground and circuit breakers.
    3. Apply Ohm's law to practical voltage problems.
    4. Define electric generator and describe its basic structure.
    5. Illustrate the sine curves for alternating current and direct current.
    6. State the function and operating principle of a transformer.
    7. Solve problems using the transformer law formula.
    8. Differentiate between step-up and step-down transformers.
    9. Explain the principle and application of autotransformers and capacitors in the x-ray circuit.
    10. Explain the purpose of rectification.
    11. Compare and contrast half-wave versus full-wave rectification.
  2. Analyze the basic design features, imaging principles, and technical considerations for all general and mobile radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment. Describe the basic components of computed tomography and artificial intelligence.
    1. Analyze the operating range and console design features of all diagnostic equipment.
    2. Compare and contrast single phase, three-phase 6-pulse, three-phase 12-pulse, and high frequency generators in reference to voltage ripple, pulses per second, and efficiency.
    3. Discuss the advantages and limitations of fixed and mobile equipment.
    4. Define fluoroscopy.
    5. State the function and components of the image intensifier.
    6. Explain minification gain, flux gain, and brightness gain.
    7. Determine the purpose, advantages, and disadvantages of multifield image intensifiers.
    8. Discuss methods of viewing and recording the fluoroscopic image.
    9. Introduce the components and operating features of computed tomography (CT).
    10. Discuss applications of artificial intelligence in healthcare.
  3. Diagram and describe the function of the components that make up the basic x-ray circuit and x-ray tube
    1. Subdivide the x-ray circuit and state the function of each division.
    2. Categorize the components of the main circuit indicating which components are found on the primary, low voltage side and which are found on the secondary, high voltage side.
    3. Analyze the components of the filament circuit.
    4. Associate the technical factor controls on the x-ray console with the circuit components and with their location within the x-ray circuit.
    5. Diagram the components of the basic x-ray circuit and identify their associated symbols and functions.
  4. Describe the components of a quality management system and apply quality control measures to imaging equipment and accessories.
    1. Define quality control and quality assurance.
    2. Identify the benefits of a good quality management system.
    3. Describe, perform, and interpret various quality control tests (radiographic and fluoroscopic) to include:
      1. Automatic exposure control (AEC)
      2. Automatic brightness systems (ABS)
      3. Protective apparel
      4. Focal spot size
      5. Milliamperages (mAs) reciprocity
      6. Exposure reproducibility
      7. mA linearity
      8. Kilovoltage potential (kVp) accuracy
      9. Timer accuracy
      10. Collimator and beam alignment
      11. Digital image receptors
      12. Display monitors
      13. Fluoroscopic exposure rate and source-to-skin distance (SSD)
      14. Reject analysis
      15. Filtration and HVL (half-value layer)

Evaluation Criteria/Policies

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90-100 = A
80-89 = B
70-79 = C
0-69 = F
Students should refer to the Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Final Course Grade

Calculated using the following weighted average

Evaluation Measure

Percentage of final grade

Summative Assessments

  • Exams (4-5-equally weighted)

85%

Formative Assessments

  • Quizzes and Assignments (equally weighted)

15%

TOTAL

100%

Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)

  1. Demonstrate clinical competence by performing a full range of radiologic procedures on all patient populations.
  2. Professionally utilize verbal, nonverbal and written communication in patient care intervention and professional relationships.
  3. Demonstrate professional growth and development by practicing the profession's code of ethics and comply with the profession's scope of practice.
  4. Demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving skills in the performance of radiographic procedures.

Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)

  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.

Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability

We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements

Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.