Revised 10/98

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.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

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

  • Identify the operating console
  • Discuss the x-ray tube construction, warm-up procedure and operation of locks and controls
  • Identify the table, movements, bucky operation and tube-film alignment
  • Identify the proper handling and maintenance of a cassette
  • State several different film/screen combinations and discuss their characteristics
  • Identify the components of automatic film processing to include:
    • feed tray
    • developer
    • fixer
    • wash
    • dryer
  • Discuss the procedure for processor maintenance and quality assurance programs
  • Discuss contrast, density and geometric principles of sharpness in relation to imaging
  • Discuss the use of a technique chart
  • Identify the components of an automatic exposure system
  • Discuss the use of optimal kilovoltage
  • State several biological effects of radiation.
  • Identify methods of minimizing radiation exposure to patients to include:
    • shielding
    • beam restrictions
    • film/screen combination
  • Identify methods of minimizing exposure to personnel to include:
    • time, distance, shielding
    • protective devices
  • Discuss considerations for the pregnant patient and employee
  • Discuss the methods of radiation exposure monitoring

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Components of a basic radiographic unit
  • General Principles of image receptors
  • Automatic film processing
  • Fundamentals of radiographic film quality
  • Definition of contrast and detail
  • Technique selection
  • Biological effects of radiation
  • Radiation Protection Techniques for patients and personnel
  • Exposure monitoring