VETT 2625 - Imaging for Veterinary Technicians- Lecture

Credit Hours: 1.50

Objectives: 

1. Describe the significance of the wavelength of x-rays. 
2. Describe how radiographs are generated. 
3. Describe the physical properties of radiographic images and imaging receptors. 
4. Describe the components of the x-ray machine. 
5. Describe the use of those machine components relative to taking a radiograph. 

Outcome 2: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to describe the fundamentals of computer radiography and digital radiography. 

Objectives: 

1. Differentiate between computer radiography and digital radiography. 
2. Compare and contrast the image receptors utilized in computer radiography and digital radiography. 
3. Compare and contrast stationary radiographic units with dental radiography and portable radiography units.  
4. Describe software variables related to digital and computer radiography. 
5. Discuss archival practices in computer and digital radiography. 

Outcome 3: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to describe the steps to obtain diagnostic radiographs of structures and regions of the body.  

Objectives: 

1. Describe the variables that control the quality and quantity of an x-ray beam. 
2. Compare and contrast the roles of milliamperage, kilovoltage, and time in the production of x-rays. 
3. State the effect of distance on the intensity of an x-ray beam. 
4. Describe the factors that affect density. 
5. Describe the exposure factors that affect contrast, density, and detail. 
6. Describe a grid and its purpose in radiography. 
7. Define the standard change made to kilovoltage to alter the penetration of x-rays. 
8. Define the standard change made to milliamperage to alter radiographic density. 
9. Describe how to utilize a technique chart for each body region. 
10. Describe how each body structures and regions are measured in preparation of obtaining radiographs. 
11. Describe the common patient positioning methods for obtaining radiographs of body structures and regions of domestic and exotic species.   
12. Describe the common positioning methods for dental radiography in canines and felines. 

Outcome 4: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to describe the fundamentals of radiation safety. 

Objectives: 

1. List the tissues most sensitive to radiation-induced damage and describe the different damage that radiation can cause in tissue. 
2. State which personnel are prohibited from assisting in radiographic procedures. 
3. Describe the two types of tissue damage that can occur from exposure to radiation. 
4. Define the units of radiation exposure for absorption. 
5. Define maximum permissible dose (MPD); name the organization responsible for setting dose limits; state the MPD for occupationally exposed personnel. 
6. Describe three types of personal exposure dosimeters. 
7. Describe three primary methods by which personnel are exposed to radiation during radiography. 
8. Describe practical methods that personnel can use to reduce personal exposure during radiography. 
9. Describe the proper maintenance protocol for protective apparel. 

Outcome 5: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to describe the fundamentals of performing radiograph contrast studies and alternative imaging technologies including ultrasound, fluoroscopy, MRI, CT scan, and nuclear scintigraphy as they pertain to clinical use.   

Objectives: 

1. Describe the anatomy of ultrasound machines. 
2. Describe the basic physics behind each alternative imaging modalities. 
3. Describe clinical uses for each of the alternative imaging modalities. 
4. Compare and contrast radiographic contrast agents, including benefits and contraindications for their use. 
5. Describe the procedure for performing the following contrast studies: excretory urogram and upper GI series. 
6. Describe the proper care and use of endoscopes.

• Communication: The graduate can communicate effectively for the intended purpose and audience.
• Critical Thinking: The graduate can make informed decisions after analyzing information or evidence related to the issue.
• Global Literacy: The graduate can analyze human behavior or experiences through cultural, social, political, or economic perspectives.
• Information Literacy: The graduate can responsibly use information gathered from a variety of formats in order to complete a task.
• Quantitative Reasoning: The graduate can apply quantitative methods or evidence to solve problems or make judgments.
• Scientific Literacy: The graduate can produce or interpret scientific information presented in a variety of formats.

1. Digital and computerized radiography
2. Processing and archiving radiographic images
3. Specific x-ray techniques
4. Technique charts
5. Radiation safety
6. Alternative imaging technologies