This course provides the student with an overview of the principles of radiation protection including responsibilities of the radiographer to patients, personnel, and the public. The concepts of "As Low as Reasonably Achievable", stochastic and nonstochastic effects, and occupational effective dose limits are addressed. Regulatory agencies will be identified and their involvement in radiation protection will be discussed.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
- Introduction to Radiation Protection
- Interaction of X-radiation with Matter
- Radiation Quantities and Units
- Dose Limits for Exposure to Ionizing Radiation
- Radiation Monitoring
- Equipment Design for Radiation Protection
- Management of Patient Radiation dose during Diagnostic X-ray Procedures
- Management of Imaging Personnel Radiation Dose
Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Explain ionizing radiation and its ability to damage tissue.
- Discuss the different types of radiation.
- Describe the types of radiation noting their origin and properties.
- List the basic radiation quantities.
- Describe the Standard International (SI) & systems of radiation units.
- List the SI radiation units.
- Explain the purpose and importance of personnel monitoring devices.
- Identify several types of personnel monitoring devices.
- Differentiate between radiation survey instruments and calibration instruments giving examples for each.
- Explain the importance of radiation protection for both the patient & and the radiographer.
- Explain equipment design for radiation protection.
- Identify and describe equipment operation regulations involving patient and radiographer radiation protection.
- Describe the concept of effective absorbed dose equivalent limits.
- Identify and describe the federal and state regulatory agencies involved in establishing and enforcing radiation protection guidelines.
Assessment and Requirements
The final course grade will be calculated using a combination of tests, quizzes, assignments, presentations and participation.
Must obtain a grade of “C” or better to remain in the Radiography program.
Textbook(s) to be determined through program faculty approval.