Radiologic Sciences (RST)

This course is designed to provide an orientation to patient care and the basic principles of radiation protection for the radiologic sciences professions. Patient assessment, patient care, venipuncture, medical terminology, and student success strategies will be presented. Students must pass this course with a grade of C or higher in order to remain in their designated program.

This course is offered in conjunction with the Introduction to Patient Care in the Radiologic Sciences course. Through hands on lab practice, students will learn appropriate patient care techniques, radiation safety and venipuncture. Students will be assessed through hands on lab practice and must pass a lab practical exam in order to begin the clinical component of their designated program. A minimum grade of C is required to begin the program.

Content is designed to establish a basic knowledge of physics pertinent to developing an understanding of radiations used in the clinical setting. Fundamental physical units, measurements, principles, atomic structure, and types of radiation are emphasized. Also presented are the fundamentals of x-ray generating equipment, x-ray production and its interaction with matter.

Introduction to the field of Radiologic Sciences to include specialties in the field, professional organizations, other professionals comprising the health care team, communication skills, critical thinking and problem solving, body mechanics, vital signs and infection control procedures. As part of this course, students will participate in a minimum of one community service project. Students will learn medical terminology in a body systems approach.

This course focuses on the physical relationships between anatomic structures. During the course the student will review basic structures and work to develop a three-dimensional understanding of anatomy. Computer generated sectional images (CT, MRI, US) are used to reinforce the relational anatomy in multiple planes (sagittal, axial, coronal). The student will study both boney and soft tissue structures, with an emphasis on the natural boundaries and spaces of the body. To demonstrate the application of this knowledge selected pathology is included as supplemental information.