Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

The focus of this unit is upon mobile imaging, accident and emergency imaging, paediatrics, geriatrics and radiography of the skull including dental imaging.
It also facilitates the ongoing development of broader general radiographic skills of the appendicular and axial skeleton.
Additionally, the unit provides students with the essential elements of contrast and therapeutic imaging of the gastrointestinal genito-urinary and hepato-biliary systems with the emphasis upon digital fluoroscopic systems and the professional role of the radiographer in managing these systems and implementing the procedures.

Objectives

1. Explain the physical principles underpinning mobile x-ray systems and apply them in clinical situations to produce and evaluate images taken in the hospital wards and operating theatres;
2. Explain the physical principles underpinning digital fluoroscopic imaging systems, image intensifiers and planar conventional tomography and apply them in clinical situations to produce and evaluate images of the gastrointestinal, urinary and hepatobiliary systems;
3. Implement and evaluate appropriate quality control measures in relation to mobile x-ray systems and digital fluoroscopic imaging systems both fixed and mobile;
4. Implement and evaluate appropriate radiation safety strategies and radiation protection measures in the context of mobile and fixed digital fluoroscopic examinations;
5. Evaluate the effectiveness of exposure protocols for all general and contrast radiographic imaging in terms of image quality and radiation protection for patients;
6. Describe and evaluate the efficacy of traditional radiographic methods to image the gastrointestinal, genito-urinary and hepato-biliary systems and skull and teeth;
7. Distinguish between normal radiographic images of the musculo-skeletal system and abnormal radiographic images following injury to these body regions involving adults and paediatrics;
8. Implement and evaluate appropriate general radiographic examinations for the musculoskeletal and respiratory systems and the abdomen on adult patients with supervision appropriate to an advanced beginner radiographer;
9. Modify and adapt basic radiographic methods, techniques and protection strategies for patients in emergency situations, paediatric patients, geriatric patients and patients requiring mobile imaging examinations of the musculoskeletal system, chest and abdomen under direct supervision;
10. Apply radiographic criteria and a problem - solving perspective to paediatric, mobile, skull and accident and emergency radiographic images.

Assessment

One 2 hour written examination - 40%
Two x 750 word SOLAR case studies - 10%
Two 750 words Imaging laboratory reports - 10%
Clinical Learning Portfolio - 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Marilyn Baird

Contact hours

3 x one hour lectures
2 x one hour tutorials
1 x one hour laboratory practical session
1 hour directed study using Blackboard
5 hours clinical studies

Prerequisites

RAD1061; RAD1021; RAD1031; RAD1012; RAD1082

Co-requisites

RAD2061