RAD5111 - Advanced CT and clinical decision making 2 - 2018

This unit builds upon the first in a series of two advanced CT radiography practice units that incorporate clinical experience with evidence informed research into modern multislice CT

practice.

The unit will require radiographers to use verified methodologies to implement a range of CT protocols with paediatric patients in an adult imaging centre as well as advanced CT protocols and post-processing approaches with adult patients who present for lung analysis, cardiac CT studies and musculo-skeletal conditions where CT is the primary imaging modality.

Radiographers will critically examine the evidence informed body of knowledge about CT radiation dose, including CTDI, DLP, effective dose and implement dose minimisation techniques/strategies in lung analysis CT, cardiac studies and musculo-skeletal CT examinations.

The unit will acknowledge the importance of clinical judgement and decision making within the context of the delivery of contrast media in the examinations addressed in the unit and the creation of high quality diagnostic multi-planar and 3D images through the competent use of advanced workstations.

Upon completion of this unit, Radiographers will be able to inform the multi-disciplinary team about technical aspects and normal and abnormal CT appearances of musculo-skeletal and lung CT examinations.

Upon successful completion of this unit, radiographers will be able to:

1. Critically evaluate aspects of scanner design, techniques and protocols for imaging for the paediatric patient in an adult medical imaging setting.
2. Apply the principles of CT radiation dose, including CTDI, DLP and effective dose and implement potential dose minimisation techniques/strategies in clinical CT practice in relation to CAD CT, cardiac studies, paediatric CT, Dual Energy CT and musculoskeletal CT

3. Inform the inter-professional health care team of risks and benefits associated with radiographic contrast media in paediatric, trauma, cardiac and Dual Energy CT examinations.
4. Implement evidence based CT imaging protocols for trauma, lung analysis, cardiac studies and musculo-skeletal examinations taking into account intravenous contrast requirement, clinical indications, patient care, healthcare resources and inter-professional collaboration.
5. Produce and critically evaluate high quality diagnostic multi-planar and 3D images from cardiac, and musculo-skeletal studies through the competent use of advanced workstations.
6. Communicate the CT appearances of common musculo-skeletal and lung disorders.

• 2 x Secure online tests (60 minutes each) (15% each) (30%)
• 2 x Advanced CT radiography case studies (15% each) (30%)
• Clinical portfolio (2500 words) (40%) (hurdle)

Off-campus: 6 hours per week of direct engagement in the learning materials and 6 hours of self-directed study for 12 weeks.

See also Unit timetable information

CT radiography

Medical ultrasound