ch. 1

Radiography Education: From Classroom to Clinic

Chapter 1


Overview of Radiography

  • Definition: Radiography is a specialty within the field of radiologic technology.

  • Professionals: Individuals who take x-rays are referred to as radiographers, medical imaging professionals, or x-ray techs.

  • Image Acquisition: Images are produced using x-rays and digital image receptors.


Role of Radiologic Technologist (RT)

  • RTs do more than take x-rays; they engage in various clinical environments and procedures.

  • Areas of involvement include:

    • Surgery

    • Trauma

    • Fluoroscopy

  • RTs interact with a wide range of patients both inside and outside hospital settings.

  • Education Requirement: To become an RT, passing a national board exam is mandatory.


Radiologic Technology Code of Ethics

  • Purpose: The code of ethics standardizes practices in radiography.

  • Communication and Diversity:

    • Daily interactions with diverse professionals require strong communication skills.

    • Technologists handle unique daily situations, requiring both technical and interpersonal skills.

  • Technical Proficiency: Knowledge of proper equipment usage and troubleshooting is essential due to varying circumstances encountered in practice.


Detailed Code of Ethics

  • The code serves as a guide for evaluating professional conduct, ensuring:

    • Professional demeanor and responsiveness to patient needs.

    • Support for colleagues and quality patient care.

    • Provision of services with respect for patient dignity.

    • Delivery of care without discrimination based on various attributes such as race, sexual orientation, disability, etc.

    • Practice grounded in theoretical knowledge, with appropriate technology use to minimize radiation exposure.

    • Ethical conduct in respecting patient confidentiality and rights.

    • Continuous improvement through education and sharing knowledge.


Effective Communication with Patients

  • Importance of empathetic and professional communication.

  • Methods:

    • Verbal and nonverbal communication.

    • Use of tools like translators and AIDET (Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation, Thank you) for guiding patient interactions.


Accreditation in Radiography

  • Definition: Accreditation is a process ensuring quality control in educational programs.

  • Types of accreditation:

    • Institutional: Evaluates overall quality of institutions.

    • Programmatic: Focuses on individual programs, specifically in radiography.

    • JRCERT: Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology is responsible for program evaluation.

    • TJC: The Joint Commission evaluates hospital accreditation.

  • Accreditation benefits include assurance of educational standards and program integrity.


Maintaining Accreditation at MSU

  • Process: Involves self-study measures including faculty assessments, site visits, and adherence to educational standards.

  • Metrics Used:

    • Acceptance, completion, board passage, and employment rates.

    • JRCERT conducts site visits for comprehensive evaluation.


Consequences of Failing to Maintain Standards

  • Accreditation probation imposed for non-compliance.

  • Programs must address failures proactively to retain accreditation status and meet industry standards.


Value of JRCERT Accreditation

  • Assurance of educational quality and public confidence.

  • Guarantees graduates have met a minimum competency level.

  • Contributes to the continuous improvement of educational programs.


Responsibilities of Radiologic Technologists

  • Knowledge is paramount, but confidence and preparedness are also essential.

  • The MSU Imaging Science Program prepares students through:

    • Classroom lectures

    • Laboratory work

    • Clinical practice with real patients

  • Focus on effectiveness, efficiency, nurture skills through:

    • Robust course content

    • Clinical experience.


Radiography Curriculum

  • Developed according to ASRT standards.

  • Courses cover:

    • Introduction to Radiologic Sciences: Fundamental concepts.

    • Clinical Education: Understanding radiographer roles in real settings.

    • RSCI Courses: Digital image acquisition, equipment, anatomy, medical terminology.

  • Radiographic Positioning Procedures: Instruction on body imaging techniques.

  • Radiation Safety: Educates on minimizing patient exposure using ALARA principle.

  • Image Evaluation: Training on producing optimal radiographs while maintaining cost effectiveness.

  • Pathology and Patient Care: Emphasis on understanding patient conditions and providing empathetic care while communicating effectively with patients.


From Classroom to Clinical Practice

  • Didactic Education: Theory learned in classrooms applied in labs and clinical settings.

  • Clinical Participation: An essential step for gaining confidence and hands-on experience, including:

    • Cognitive learning via lectures.

    • Affective learning to develop professional values.

    • Psychomotor learning through practical application.

  • Participation Types:

    • Passive: Observing technologists during procedures.

    • Active: Performing tasks and exams under supervision with competency assessments to validate skill.


Continuing Education Requirements

  • Ongoing education is mandated by ARRT:

    • 24 CE credits every biennium or passing an additional certification examination.

    • Periodic self-assessment every 10 years to maintain professional standards.


Conclusion

  • The transition from classroom to clinical practice in radiography is complex.

  • A strong curriculum reflects current practices in radiologic technology and is vital for student preparation and success.

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