Radiology Technology Study Guide

This set of flashcards covers essential vocabulary and definitions related to radiology technology, networking basics, information systems, data standards, imaging workflows, and important reminders regarding patient data management.

Local Area Network (LAN)

Connects computers within a single building, providing localized access.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

Connects networks across a wider area, enabling communication between different locations.

Hospital Information System (HIS)

A comprehensive system that contains all hospital information, including clinical and financial data.

Radiology Information System (RIS)

A system specific to radiology department operations, managing scheduled appointments, patient orders, and billing information.

Health Level Seven (HL7)

A standard that ensures secure communication of patient information within a hospital system.

Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM)

A standard format for medical images that facilitates image communication, storage, and retrieval.

Vendor Neutral Archive (VNA)

A computer language used for sending and receiving non-image medical information.

Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS)

A system consisting of servers for the digital storage and retrieval of medical images.

Image Acquisition

The process involving room preparation, patient history, positioning, and technical factors before image capture.

Radiologist Interpretation

The process where the radiologist reviews images and dictates a report.

Teleradiology

Remote image reading by radiologists using web-based systems for secure image transmission.

Window Width

A tool that controls the contrast of displayed images.

Window Level

A tool that controls the brightness of displayed images.

Image Stitching

Combining multiple images to represent large anatomical structures.

HIPAA Compliance

Maintaining adherence to regulations for safeguarding patient information and obtaining necessary releases.

Electronic Medical Record (EMR)

A digital version of a patient’s paper chart, containing medical history and treatment information.

Electronic Health Record (EHR)

A more comprehensive record shared among multiple healthcare providers.