Course description
In this course, students practice acquisition of radiographic images, with emphasis on problem solving. Topics include use of contrast media in radiography, advanced diagnostic imaging including ultrasound, fluoroscopy, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and nuclear scintigraphy, and equine radiographic techniques. Field experience is required. This field experience may take place outside of scheduled class hours.
Course content
Radiographic techniques
- radiograph evaluation
- technique chart formulation
Equine radiography
- portable and mobile X-ray units
- limb anatomy
- radiograph positioning techniques
- safe work practices
Special radiographic techniques
- positive and negative contrast media
- use of barium in gastrointestinal studies
- use of iodine in urologic studies
- other uses for contrast media in radiography
Advanced imaging techniques
- ultrasound
- fluoroscopy
- endoscopy
- computed tomography
- magnetic resonance imaging
- nuclear scintigraphy
Learning activities
Learning activities may include seminars, workshops, group work, online quizzes, case studies, on-campus labs and field experience. Radiography lab assignments will include both live animals and cadavers. The mandatory equine radiography lab takes place off-site and students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the lab location.
Means of assessment
Assessments will be in accordance with the Douglas College Evaluation Policy. The instructor will present a written course outline with specific evaluation criteria at the beginning of the semester.
In order to achieve a grade of C (or higher) in the course, students must:
- achieve a final minimum grade of 60% in each of the lecture and lab components of the course
- demonstrate competency (a performance of 60% or higher) in an evaluation of each of the assigned essential skills
- attend a minimum of 80% of the scheduled lab hours
Evaluation will be based on:
Lab evaluations: 20-50% (No single evaluation worth more than 15%)
Assignments: 10-30%
Quizzes: 10-20% (No single quiz worth more than 5%)
Term test(s): 0-10%
Final examination(s): 30-40%
Total: 100%
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- safely and competently perform radiographic essential skills designated by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association;
- formulate radiographic technique charts;
- obtain diagnostic radiographic images;
- explain and practice special radiographic techniques for the digestive and urinary systems, including an upper gastrointestinal barium series and retrograde cystography;
- discuss the fundamentals of ultrasonography and other specialized imaging techniques including fluoroscopy, CT (Computed Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and nuclear scintigraphy;
- discuss the challenges associated with equine radiography;
- perform equine radiography and evaluate equine radiographs.
Textbook materials
Consult the Douglas College Bookstore for the latest required textbooks and materials. Example textbooks and materials may include:
M. Brown and L. Brown. (Current Edition). Lavin's Radiography for Veterinary Technicians. Pub Elsevier.