MontgomeryCollege
Takoma Park Campus
Radiology Technology Program
Syllabus RT 101
Fall 2012
Course Title: Radiologic Technology ICredit Hours: 4
Pre/co-requisite: Mathematics foundationInstructor: Rose Aehle, MS RT(R,M)
Office# (240)567-5564
Fax# (240)567-5561
Office hours: M,W 12:00-1:00
Web:- Lecture notes/homework assignments located here
Make sure and check Blackboard and your MC e-mail regularly
Class Hours: Lecture CRN 20579 M,W1:00 pm to 2:15 pm
Lab- CRN 20578 M 2:16 pm to 3:55 pm
Lab CRN 20580W 2:16 pm to 3:55 pm
Texts:Radiologic Science for Technologists, Physics, Biology and Protection10th
Edition, Bushong, Mosby, (Text and Workbook)
Radiographic Imaging and Exposure
Terri Fauber
Digital Radiography and PACS 3rd edition
Christi Carter
Course Description:An introductory course to the science of medical radiographic exposure techniques. Topics such as X-ray formation, X-ray interaction with matter, components necessary for image formation, automatic processing, densitometry, radiation protection, scatter radiation, factors controlling scatter radiation, digital/computed radiology and mobile radiography will be covered. In addition, basic atomic structure and fundamental physics will be covered at the start of the course to ensure the student has a basic foundation upon which to build.As part of this course, radiation protection concepts including but not limited to ALARA principles will be incorporated into this course.
(CE) PREREQUISITE: Admission to the RT program or permission of the department. PRE- or COREQUISITE: Mathematics foundation. Assessment levels: EN 101/101A, RD 120. Three hours lecture, two hours laboratory each week.
Course Outcomes: (Objectives based on requiredtexts)
The student will be able to
(History)
1. Identify the difference between matter and energy
2. Define electromagnetic radiation and specifically, ionizing radiation.
3. Explain how x-rays were discovered accidentally.
4. Discuss human injury caused by radiation.
5. List basic radiation protection equipment.
6. Describe a brief history of modern radiography (to include DR and CR) and discuss what behaviors are required of a radiographer.
7. Discuss time, distance and shielding in reference to radiation protection.
(Radiographic units)
- List and define units of radiation measurement and absorbed dose
(Foundational physics)
1. Discuss the derivation of scientific systems of measurement
2. List the three systems of measurements.
3. Identify nine categories of mechanics
4. Relate the history of the atom .
5. Identify the structure of the atom.
6. Describe electron shells and instability within atomic structure.
7. Discuss radioactivity and the characteristics of alpha and beta particles that can ionize matter.
8. Explain the difference between particulate and electromagnetic ionizing radiation.
(Electromagnetic Radiation)
1) Define and identify photons and their relationship to electromagnetic radiation
2) Compare wavelength, frequency and amplitude as it relates to the electromagnetic spectrum
3) Identify the properties of the electromagnetic spectrum
4) Discuss the concepts of wave-particle duality, visible wave properties and radiation attenuation.
5)Calculate the inverse square law
6) Devine the properties of matter and energy
(X-ray room and tube components)
1. Identify the components of the console or control panel.
2. Explain the operation of the high-voltage generator, including the autotransformer, the filament transformer and the rectifiers.
3. Relate the major differences between single and three phase power, including voltage ripple.
4. Define the power rating unit.
5. Describe the six support designs for the x-ray tube.
6 List the parts of the housing that protects the x-ray tube.
7. Identify the components for the glass or metal envelope that make up the x-ray tube.
8. Discuss the cathode and filament currents.
9. Describe the parts of the anode and the induction motor.
10. Define the line focus principle and the heel effect.
11 Identify the three causes of x-ray tube failure.
12. Explain the use of tube rating charts to prevent tube failure.
(Radiation production and interactions)
1. Discuss the interactions between electrons and the x-ray target.
2. Identify the graphs depicting the x-ray emission spectra for characteristic and Bremsstrahlung radiation.
3. Explain how mAs, kVp, added filtration, target material and voltage ripple affect x-ray emission spectra.
4. Describe each of the five x-ray interactions with matter.
5. Define and compare differential absorption and attenuation.
6. Explain the effect of atomic number and mass density of tissue on the differential absorption of the x-ray beam.
7. Discuss why radiologic contrast agents are used to highlight soft tissue structures and organs in the human body.
(Quantity and Quality)
1. Define radiation quantity in relation to intensity in roentgens.
2. Define radiation quantity in relation to mAs.
3. List and discuss the factors affecting the quantity of x-rays in the beam
4. Explain x-ray quality or penetrability.
5. List and discuss the factors affecting the quality of the x-ray beam
(Radiographic Image production and processing)
Filmless systems
1. Discuss the implications differences and functions of CR systems and DR systems
2. Recognize, define and apply common terminology specific to digital systems
3. Describe the steps of image production in a CR system
4. Describe the steps of image production in a DR system
5. Discuss post processing options
6. Recognize the importance of exposure level numbers and its relationship to exposure
7. Evaluate and contrast how the image is captured in CR and in DR
8 Discuss image receptors in CR. Identify the construction of a image receptor in CR
9. Describe PACs and its value in a filmless system
10 Define quantum mottle and it’s association with filmless systems
Conventional Film systems
1. List and define the characteristics of x-ray film.
2. Identify the types of film used in diagnostic imaging departments.
3. Explain proper film storage and handling procedures.
4 Discuss the historical development from hand processing to automatic processing.
5 Explain the systems of the automatic processor, including the transport system,
the temperature- control system, the circulation system, the replenishment system, the dryer system, and the electrical system.
6. List and describe the layers that make up an intensifying screen.
7. Identify the screen characteristics of x-ray absorption, the x-ray to light conversion efficiency, and the speed of screens.
8. Discuss film-screen combinations, including calcium-tungstate and rare-earth systems.
9. Describe the handling and cleaning of intensifying screens.
(Scatter Production and Grids/Beam restriction)
1. Identify two kinds of x-rays that are responsible for remnant radiation.
2. List three factors that contribute to scatter radiation.
3. Discuss three devices developed to minimize scatter radiation.
4. Recognize the relationship between scatter radiation and image contrast.
5. Explain the components of grid construction.
6. Calculate grid ratio, grid frequency, contrast improvement factor, Bucky factor and selectivity
7. Describe eight different types of grids.
8. Discuss the five common errors using grids.
9. Evaluate the circumstances for proper grid selection.
10. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the use of grids in relation to patient radiation exposure.
(Technique, patient factors)
1. List the four prime exposure factors.
2. Discuss the relationship between mAs and kVp in relation to beam quality and quantity.
3. Describe equipment characteristics that are secondary factors in changing the quantity and quality of the x-ray beam.
4. List the four patient factors and explain their affects on radiographic technique.
5. Discuss the four image quality factors of optical density, contrast, image detail, and distortion and how they are used to describe the characteristics of a radiograph.
6. Identify the three types of technique charts.
7. Explain the three types of automatic-exposure controls.
GENERAL SYLLABUS INFORMATION
Classroom Behavior:
Each and every student is expected to behave in ways, which promote a teaching and learning atmosphere. Students have the right to learn; however, they do not have the right to interfere with the freedom of the faculty to teach or the rights of other students to learn. Students will be treated respectfully in return for respectful behavior.
All in-class discussions should be carried out in a way that keeps the classroom environment respectful of the rights of others. This means that, for example, students should not interrupt someone else who is talking regardless of whether that person is the instructor or another student. Students should not monopolize class time by repeatedly interrupting and asking questions in a manner in which hinders the learning process of others. Students are also expected to conduct themselves in ways which created a safe learning and teaching environment that is free from such things as violence, intimidation, sexual harassment or any other form of harassment. Should a student be disruptive in class, then he/she will be asked to leave. The instructor reserves the right to have the student removed by Security if refusal occurs. Please refer to this link regarding Montgomery College’s student code of conduct
Cell phones and pagers should be kept on vibrate mode and students who must speak on a cell phone, must do so outside of the classroom to prevent disruption to the rest of the class.
Academic Dishonesty and Misconduct
Students are expected to maintain the integrity of the test-taking environment by doing their own work and not allowing others to copy one’s work. Taking and referring to texts are strictly prohibited during an examination. Non-compliance to these standards may result in a failing grade of the examination.
Please refer to this link regarding Montgomery College’s student code of conduct
Please refer also to the Radiology Technology Student Handbookand Clinical Education Plan.
Student e-mail
It is recommended that you check his or her account routinely for official communication or as directed by your instructor(s). Some items you may find there are: course announcements, invoices, important admission/registration information, waitlist status. To check your e-mail, log into your MyMC online account and locate the e-mail icon in the upper right hand corner of the page.”
For this class, e-mail will be sent via Blackboard. Assignments not already indicated in this syllabus and other than homework assignments which are listed on the RT web page under the current course link will be attached to BB. Students will be informed either in class or via e-mail for any additional assignments.
Tobacco Free Policy at Montgomery College
On August 1, 2008, Montgomery College implemented a Smoke and Tobacco Free Policy which prohibits smoking or the use of other tobacco products on any of its campuses or other property. Students who smoke or use tobacco products will be considered in violation of the student conduct code and their behavior will be reported to the Dean of Student Development’s office for the appropriate disciplinary action including probation, suspension, or dismissal. If you have any questions about this new policy, please contact the Vice President and Provost’s Office, the Office of the Dean of Student Development or the Campus Security Office
Attendance
(See page 9 of this syllabus for more attendance requirements specific to this course)
Students are expected to attend all class sessions. In cases involving excessive absences from class, the instructor may drop the student from the class. An excessive absence is defined as one more absence than the number of classes per week during a fall or spring semester; the number of absences is prorated for accelerated sessions.
Students are also expected to be on time for class. Excessive lateness will result in a counseling session with the instructor and persistent lateness may result in unsuccessful completion of the course.
Withdrawal and Refund Dates
It is the student’s responsibility to drop a course. Non-attendance of classes or failure to pay does not constitute official withdrawal. To view specific drop deadlines, log into your MyMC account:
1) Click on “My Class Schedule” under Student Quick Links
2) Select the current term
3) Click on “View Drop Deadline Dates” at the bottom of the page”
Audit Policy
All students registered for audit are required to consult with the instructor before or during the first class session in which they are in audit status, and students are required to participate in all course activities unless otherwise agreed upon by the student and instructor at the time of consultation. Failure to consult with the instructor or to so participate may result in the grade of “W” being awarded. This action may be taken by the instructor by changing the “AU” to “W” before the drop with “W” date.
Disability Support Services
Disability Support Services recommends the following language: “Any student who needs an accommodation due to a disability should make an appointment to see me during my office hours. In order to receive accommodations, a letter from Disability Support Services (G-SA189; R-CB122; or TP/SS-ST122) will be needed. Any student who may need assistance in the event of an emergency evacuation must identify to the Disability Support Services Office; guidelines for emergency evacuations for individuals with disabilities are found at:
Veteran’s Services
Recommended language for this section includes: “If you are a veteran or on active or reserve status and you are interested in information regarding opportunities, programs and/or services, please visit the Combat2College Website at
Delayed Opening or Closing of the College
Because of inclement weather or utility failure or for other reasons, it may be necessary to delay opening or suspend all operations of the College or an individual campus.
Montgomery College will always operate on its regular schedule unless otherwise announced. Depending on the nature of the incident, notifications of emergencies and changes to the College’s operational status will be communicated through one or more of the following means:
• College emergency responders: Security Officers, Campus Response and/or Support Teams
• Montgomery College ALERT. Registered users receive text and e-mail messages. Registration information at
• Montgomery College Emergency Desktop Notification. Scrolling messages are broadcast on College computers
• Montgomery College Website at
• MyMC Website at
• MyMC student e-mail system • Montgomery College employee voice mail. From off-site, dial 240-567-1701
• Montgomery College employee e-mail. From off-site,
• Montgomery College main phone number at 240-567-5000
• Montgomery College cable channel 10 in Montgomery County
• Commercial radio and TV stations including:
Television
Channel 5 WTTG
Channel 7 WJLA
Channel 9 WUSA
News Channel 8
Radio
WFRE (99.5 FM) – Frederick
WAMU (88.5 FM)
WFMD (930 AM) – Frederick
WMAL (630 AM)
All inquiries from the news media regarding an emergency event should be directed to the College’s Office of Communications.
How Closing and Delays Impact Classes
If a class can meet for 50% or more of its regularly scheduled meeting time OR if the class can meet for 50 minutes or more, it will meet. Montgomery College will always operate on its regular schedule unless otherwise announced.Depending on the nature of the incident, notifications of emergencies and changes to the College’s operational status will be communicated through one or more communication methods including the College’s website For the most up-to-date information regarding College openings, closings, or emergencies, all students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to sign up for email and text alerts via Montgomery College ALERT. Registration information is available at
PRINTING AT MONTGOMERY COLLEGE
Students will now be charged for printing any document at Montgomery College
Please refer to this link for more information:
Electronic Devices
Use of recording devices and laptops are permitted for lecture and labs. During lecture and labs, beepers andcell phones need to be set on silent or vibrate mode. If a student must respond to a cell phone call during class time, they must leave the classroom or lab to do so. Extended absence from the lecture or lab to return a call may be recorded as an unexcused absence and this may impact the student’s ability to continue in the lab or lecture that day. Students are urged to use discretion in returning calls during class time. NO CELL PHONES OR LAP TOPS MAY USED DURING AN EXAMINATION. ALL CELL PHONES MUST BE TURNED OFF PRIOR TO THE BEGINNING OF EXAMINATIONS. NO LAP TOPS WILL BE ALLOWED OUT OF THEIR CASES DURING EXAMINATIONS
Grading:
93-100 A Any student receiving a grade below “C” in this
86-92 B course must repeat it satisfactorily before taking
78-85 C successive courses.
77 and below F .
Grades will be determined by:
Attendance 5%
Assignments 15%
(Workbook Assignments/Critical Thinking Assignments)
Exams (3) 45%
Cumulative Final Exam 35%
100%
Grades will be posted on Blackboard so students can track their progress
Attendance: (5%)
The attendance policy for this course is the same as that stated in the Montgomery College Catalog. Unexcused and excessive absences may result in an administrative drop from the course.
Every absence, lateness to class or lab, leaving early or lack of participation in class will result in a 10 point deduction per infraction.
A student may NOT attend a lab that they are not enrolled in.
Excessive infractions will result in a coaching/counseling process which result in grade deductions or unsuccessful completion of course.
The student is urged to review the last sentence concerning unexcused absences and administrative drop from the course. If a student cannot make class, it is their responsibility to call the College and relay that message to the faculty.
Assignments (15%)
Workbook Assignments
1.These will be posted on the RT 101 link of the Radiologic Technology Web page.
2.Workbooks with completed assignments are to be handed in to the instructor on examination days. Assignments covering the objectives for each examination should be completed
3. The instructor does not check for accuracy of answers as an answer key is within the workbook and it is the student’s responsibility to check the answers.
4. If the assignment is not complete by the start of a scheduled exam day, the assignment grade will be calculated based on the number of assignments completed divided by the number of assignments required. For example if three worksheets were required to be completed by an examination date and only 2 were completed, the student’s grade would be a 66%.