Radiography and Imaging Lecture Review

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering radiography credentials, professional organizations, radiation safety, imaging quality factors, and patient care terminology.

MRI

A magnet-based imaging modality that uses NO radiation to visualize the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and ligaments.

CT

Computed Tomography; uses multiple X-rays to produce cross-sectional images used for trauma and organ visualization.

Ultrasound

An imaging modality using sound waves to view pregnancy, soft tissue, and blood flow.

PET

An imaging modality using a radioactive tracer to visualize organ function and cancer metabolism.

DXA

Also known as DEXA; uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone density and evaluate osteoporosis.

Primary Certification

The first ARRT certification earned after graduating from an accredited radiography program.

Post-Primary Certification

Additional certifications (e.g., CT, MRI, Mammography) obtained after becoming registered.

Radiologic Technologist

A healthcare professional who performs imaging exams, positions patients, and operates equipment.

Radiologist Assistant (RA)

A professional who works under a radiologist performing advanced imaging procedures.

ASRT

American Society of Radiologic Technologists; the professional organization responsible for education, continuing education, and ethics.

ARRT

American Registry of Radiologic Technologists; the organization that gives certification exams and registers technologists.

ACR

American College of Radiology; creates imaging guidelines and promotes quality imaging.

JRCERT

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology; the body that accredits radiography programs.

RSNA

Radiological Society of North America; focuses on research, education, and annual conferences.

Certification

A credential given by the ARRT that demonstrates national competency.

Licensure

Permission given by the state that allows a technologist to legally work.

Interprofessional Education (IPE)

When healthcare students learn together to improve teamwork, communication, and patient outcomes.

ALARA

An acronym standing for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable," which is the guiding principle for radiation safety.

Time, Distance, and Shielding

The three primary ways to reduce radiation exposure.

OSL Dosimeter

Optically Stimulated Luminescence; the most common monitoring badge used today to measure radiation exposure.

TLD

Thermoluminescent Dosimeter; a badge used to measure accumulated radiation.

Geiger-Müller Counter

A device used to detect radiation contamination.

NRC

Nuclear Regulatory Commission; the agency that controls radioactive materials.

OSHA

Occupational Safety and Health Administration; the agency responsible for protecting worker safety.

MQSA

Mammography Quality Standards Act; ensures the quality of mammograms.

$$mAs$$

The exposure factor that controls image brightness and the quantity of radiation.

$$kVp$$

The exposure factor that controls the penetration of the X-ray beam.

$$SID$$

Source-to-Image Distance; affects both the image size and sharpness.

Filtration

The process of removing low-energy X-rays to reduce patient dose and improve beam quality.

SBAR

A communication tool standing for Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation.

TeamSTEPPS

A program designed to improve communication, teamwork, and patient safety within healthcare.

CQI

Continuous Quality Improvement; the goal of constantly improving patient care and imaging quality.

PACS

Picture Archiving and Communication System; used to store digital images and allow for fast sharing and retrieval.