Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

An overview of the principles of medical imaging and radiation therapy is a necessary introduction to students of medical radiation technology.sciences.

Aims

This unit will provide you with an understanding of the fundamentals of radiography and radiation therapy practice. An overview of the physical principles and clinical applications of various imaging modalities will be presented. The unit will also provide an introduction to cancer and an overview of the techniques used in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Objectives

On completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Describe the role of the radiographer and the radiation therapist in providing patient care and the physical basis and fundamentals of practices used in the production of x-ray images and apply this knowledge in the laboratory situation.

2. Describe the physical principles of operation and clinical applications of a range of imaging modalities and apply this knowledge in the laboratory situation.

3. Describe types of cancer and methods of classification.

4. Describe the techniques used in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

5. Use the library to search for literature related to medical radiation sciences professional practice.

Content

The role of the medical imaging technologist and the medical imaging department
Preliminary Aspects of Diagnostic Radiography
- the x-ray machine
- the basic principles of image formation
- prime factors in exposure
- geometric factors
- image receptors : CR plates, cassettes, film, intensifying screens
- scattered radiation: beam limitation, grids
Radiation Protection

Terminology and Basic Positioning Principles
- body habitus
- patient care and preparation for x-ray examinations
- clinical history
- ethical considerations
Professional issues
- professional practice
- A.I.R..
Contrast media introduction and uses
Image Intensified Fluoroscopy.
Computed Radiography and digital imaging.
Computed Tomography.
Nuclear Medicine.
Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

The role of the radiation therapist and the fundamentals of radiation therapy. Cancer signs & symptoms, incidence, prevention and screening
Tumour Diagnosis.
Tumour Classification.
Cancer Treatment: A Multidisciplinary Approach.
Principles of cancer management and patient care
Surgery, Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy.
Radiation therapy: positioning,simulation,planning,treatment; dose delivery & equipment
Other Therapies : complementary/alternative methods.
Role of Research in Cancer Clinical trials

Introduction to the QUT library : Basic information literacy skills.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

Lectures provide the theoretical background knowledge, incorporating case study examples and information. Practical exercises and tutorial sessions provide an introduction to the operation of x-ray equipment and radiotherapy treatment planning.

Assessment

In order to gain a grade of 4-7 for this unit , you will be required to demonstrate a satisfactory level of achievement in each item of assessment and a mark of at least 55% overall.

(Deferred assessment will not be available for the progress exam and students who are unable to attend due to illness etc (and supply appropriate documentation) will have the end of semester exam worth 60%)You will receive written feedback on your laboratory practical exercises, as well as informal feedback during the practical sessions. Feedback on the progress exam will also be provided.

Assessment name: Practical Exercises
Description: Formative and summative. Weekly practical sessions including supervised use of laboratory x-ray equipmentand simulated radiotherapy. equipment
Relates to objectives: 2.
Weight: 20%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Weekly

Assessment name: Problem Solving Task
Description: Formative and summative. Information literacy and professional practice task.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2 and 5.
Weight: 20%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: During Semester

Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
Description: Summative. Progress written examination.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Weight: 15%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Mid Semester

Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
Description: Summative. End of semester written examination.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Weight: 45%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: End Semester

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Texts:

1. PCB178 Principles of Medical Radiations Laboratory Manual (provided)

2. Bushong SC (2008) Radiological Science for Technologists, 9th edition, Mosby


Recommended Reference:

1. Mosby's Medical Nursing & Allied Health Dictionary, Mosby

OR

2. Stedman's Concise Medical Dictionary for the Health Professional, Williams & Wilkins

Risk assessment statement

The only out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit relate to the use of x-ray equipment in the radiography laboratory. You will receive instructions on safety issues and laboratory rules. You will be required to submit a declaration that you have read the Radiation Safety and Protection Plan prior to using the facilities.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 21-Sep-2012