Course Overview
This course provides students with the opportunity to combine theory and simulation through didactic and lab opportunities. Students will operate imaging and accessory equipment needed to demonstrate competence in the clinical environment. The course includes applied concepts relating to technical and physical principles of the x-ray beam which influence and affect the radiographic image acquisition, processing, display, and storage as it relates directly to clinical practice. Topics include in-depth study of the structural design of a radiographic system's components (x-ray tube, table, Bucky, and generator). Also of importance are factors that influence the resultant image such as patient variables, technical exposure factors, beam geometry, equipment malfunction, programmed image algorithms, and post- acquisition processing tools. Radiographic images are generated to discuss equipment operations, variables related to image quality and diagnostic parameters with respect to providing solutions based on technical, equipment, exposure technique, or patient influence. The imaging principles and operation of fluoroscopic equipment used in the general imaging department as well as mobile C-arms and mobile units will be explored. The design, construction, advantages, and challenges of producing images with these types of equipment will be validated during interactive and applied lab sessions.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
5.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, the student will be able to:
- Operate various components of imaging systems, such as a computer radiography, digital radiography, fluoroscopy and mobile systems.
- Apply knowledge of the operational components of imaging systems, such as a computer radiography, digital radiography, fluoroscopy and mobile systems to optimize images and data.
- Demonstrate knowledge of radiographic principles affecting image quality.
- Identify and provide possible solutions for CR, DR, mobile, and fluoroscopy equipment malfunction.
- Apply understanding of technical and non-technical influences to optimize images and data.
- Patient variables
- Exposure factors
- Exposure distance
- Scatter radiation
- Beam collimation
- Beam geometry
- Magnification
- Filtration (inherent and added)
- Grids
- Automatic Exposure Control
- Anatomical Programmed Response (APR)
- Improve and adapt image quality through selecting and optimizing imaging parameters.
- Set appropriate technical factors and manipulate x-ray technique factors according to exam variations.
- Perform x-ray exposures, image acquisition, processing and annotation in a lab setting, including acquisition, image display, storage, artifacts and post processing operations.
- Follow radiation safety requirements in a lab setting, implementing ALARA principles according to known radiation risk and effect.
- Conduct self-reflective practices to analyse course progression.
Effective as of Winter 2025
Related Programs
Imaging Sciences 1 (MRAD 1302) is offered as a part of the following programs:
School of Health Sciences
- Medical Radiography
Diploma Full-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.