Program Overview

Introduction to MRS110 Introductory Medical Radiation Science

MRS110 Introductory Medical Radiation Science is a subject that introduces the diverse array of technology required for the medical radiation sciences. It serves as a basic technological introduction to x-ray production and radiation detection, providing an understanding of the technological requirements of quality management, safety, and standards.

Availability

The subject is available in two sessions:

• Session 1 (30) on campus at Port Macquarie Campus and Wagga Wagga Campus
• Session 2 (60) on campus at Port Macquarie Campus and Wagga Wagga Campus

Subject Information

Grading System

The grading system for this subject is HD/FL.

Duration

The duration of this subject is two sessions.

School

The subject is offered by the School of Dentistry and Health Sciences.

Enrolment Restrictions

This subject is restricted to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

• Correctly use medical terminology
• Explain x-ray production and scintigraphic detection
• Outline the construction, function, and application of equipment used in the medical radiation sciences
• Explain the principles and application of radiation safety in the medical radiation sciences
• Apply the basic principles involved in x-ray production and radiation detection
• Critically discuss factors affecting image quality at a beginner level
• Describe the general principles of quality assurance
• Demonstrate critical, analytical, and reflective skills in a range of contexts
• Identify and utilize effective communication skills in various settings

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:

Module 1: X-ray Production

• Terminology
• The x-ray tube
• The x-ray beam and its production
• The use of x-rays (diagnostic and therapeutic)

Module 2: Radiographic Technique

• X-ray beam attenuation and subject contrast
• Control of scattered radiation
• Exposure control
• Image display and viewing
• Image quality

Module 3: Image Production

• Image capture: film/screen, fluoroscopy, computed radiography (CR), digital radiography (DR)
• Modulation Transfer Function

Module 4: Nuclear Medicine Science

• Radiation decay
• Radiopharmaceuticals
• Scintillation detectors
• SPECT
• PET
• Other radiation detection devices

Module 5: Equipment Applications

• Fluoroscopy
• Mobiles
• Conventional tomography
• Dental x-ray
• Mammography
• Radiation therapy

Module 6: Quality Assurance and Department Design

• Equipment standards
• Radiation protection and dosimetry
• Electromechanical standards and quality assurance
• Room design, including radiation protection
• Basic principles of quality assurance and quality control programs