Curriculum
RS 1105 Introduction to Radiographic Science 1 credit. History of the profession, responsibilities of the technologist, professional development, radiation protection, areas of specialization.
Course Learning Goals: This course has been designed to allow students to gain an understanding of the role of a radiographer in the health care environment. Basic radiology vocabulary, simple machine characteristics, positioning nomenclature, legal/ethical standards, and radiation protection practices will be presented. The student will learn the process to become accepted in the Radiographic Science Program at Idaho State University and will discover the alternate career paths available in this field of study.
RS 3310 Radiographic Methods I 2 credits. Introduces the student to basic terminology, theory and principles of anatomy, and positioning of the chest, abdomen, and upper extremities
Course Learning Goals: This course has been designed to give the student the opportunity to identify radiographic positioning terms and to become familiar with the anatomy of the thorax, abdomen and upper extremities. Basic theory, terminology, specific body positions, topical landmarks, and certain disease processes will be introduced. Additionally, the student will gain an appreciation for the technical aspects of radiology and will gain a better understanding of the process involved in critiquing radiographs from the vantage point of technical accuracy. This course will ultimately prepare the student for the corresponding laboratory experience.
RS 3311 Radiographic Methods II 2 credits. Introduces the student to basic theory and principles of radiographic procedures of the lower limb, femur, pelvic girdle, cervical/thoracic/lumbar spine, sacrum coccyx, and upper gastrointestinal system.
Course Learning Goals: This course has been designed to give the student the opportunity to identify radiographic positioning terms and to become familiar with the anatomy of the lower limb, femur, pelvic girdle, cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine, and the gastrointestinal system. Basic theory, terminology, specific body positions, topical landmarks, and certain disease processes will be introduced. Additionally, students will expand their appreciation for the technical aspects of radiology and will further their understanding of the processes involved in critiquing radiographs from the vantage point of technical accuracy. This course will ultimately prepare the student for the corresponding laboratory experience.
RS 3312 Radiographic Methods III 2 credits. Continuation of 3311 emphasizing theory and principles of radiographic examinations of the lower gastrointestinal system, bony thorax, skull and cranial bones, facial bones, paranasal sinuses, and urinary system. F
Course Learning Goals: This course has been designed to give the student the opportunity to identify radiographic positioning terms and to become familiar with the anatomy of the lower gastrointestinal system, bony thorax, skull and cranial bones, facial bones, paranasal sinuses, and urinary system. Basic theory, terminology, specific body positions, topical landmarks, and certain disease processes will be introduced. Additionally, students will expand their appreciation for the technical aspects of radiology and will further their understanding of the processes involved in critiquing radiographic images from the vantage point of technical accuracy. This course will ultimately prepare the student for the corresponding laboratory experience and clinical rotations.
RS 3320L Radiographic Imaging Applications Laboratory 1 credit. Laboratory experience with photographic technique including image recording media, acquisition, manipulation of CR/DR, and film screen methods.
Course Learning Goals: This lab uses a “hands on approach” which prepares students to practice as a radiographer. Students have the opportunity to simulate in a laboratory setting the skills needed to efficiently process diagnostic radiographic images utilizing x-ray film and computed radiography (CR). Additionally, the technical aspects of processing each type of radiographic recording media will be presented and phantoms will be utilized to make exposures. Radiographic images will be critiqued, which gives the student the opportunity to interact and to be quizzed by the course instructor. Upon completion of the course the student will be ready to competently process radiographic images in a clinical setting.
RS 3325 Patient Care in Radiography 3 credits. Introduction to patient care principles and procedures utilized in radiography including vital signs, body mechanics, catheterization, sterile procedures, drug administration, isolation techniques and medical emergency procedures.
Course Learning Goals: This course will study theory and clinical applications relevant to providing quality patient care in a radiography setting. Topic areas will include: professional and ethical issues for radiographers, communication, documentation, patient’s rights, mobility and transferring patients, patient care and safety, infection control, CPR certification, vital signs and oxygen administration, sterile technique, trauma and emergency considerations, venipuncture and basic IV set-up, contrast media and drug administration, care of patients with special needs/considerations, and care of patients during both routine and complex imaging procedures. Skills acquired and passed off during this course meet the ARRT general patient care requirements for the radiography registry.
RS 3330 Radiographic Exposure with Lab 3 credits. COREQ: RS 3330L.
Determination of radiographic exposure values with emphasis on radiographic quality and equipment used in the production of radiographs.
Course Learning Goals: This course has been designed to prepare student radiographers for the responsibilities of radiographic imaging. The student will learn the characteristics of the x-ray beam, and how image quality is achieved by manipulating exposure values; specifically, mA, kVp and time. Basic theory of exposure factor selection, automatic exposure control, and digital imaging, including digital fluoroscopy will be taught. At the conclusion of the course students will demonstrate understanding of the photographic and geometric properties, scatter control, grids, image receptors, and basic conversion factors used in the production of x-rays. Ultimately, the student will gain a better understanding of the process involved in obtaining a technically adequate radiograph. This classroom understanding prepares the student for the corresponding laboratory experience.
RS 3340 Laboratory Practicum I 1 credit. Designed to develop pre-clinical competency in routine hospital procedures and radiographic tasks, basic x-ray interpretation, patient management, communications, and manipulation of x-ray equipment.
Course Learning Goals: This lab uses a hands-on approach which prepares students to practice as a radiographer. It has been designed to give the student the opportunity to simulate in a laboratory setting the radiographic positioning terms and positions that are taught in class. Additionally, the technical aspects of the exam will be presented and phantoms will be utilized to make exposures. Radiographs will be provided to label anatomy, which gives the student the opportunity to interact and to be quizzed by the course instructor. Upon completion of the course the student will be ready to perform the exams in a clinical setting.
RS 3341 Laboratory Practicum II 1 credit. Designed to develop pre-clinical competency in routine hospital procedures and radiographic tasks, basic x-ray interpretation, patient management, communications, and manipulation of x ray equipment. COREQ: RS 3311.
Course Learning Goals: This lab uses a “hands on approach” which prepares students to practice as a radiographer. It has been designed to give the student the opportunity to simulate in a laboratory setting the radiographic positioning terms and positions that are taught in class. Additionally, the technical aspects of the exam will be presented and phantoms will be utilized to make exposures. Radiographs will be provided to label anatomy, which gives the student the opportunity to interact and to be quizzed by the course instructor. Upon completion of the course the student will be ready to perform the exams in a clinical setting.
RS 3342 Laboratory Practicum III 1 credit. Designed to develop pre-clinical competency in routine hospital procedures and radiographic tasks, basic x-ray interpretation, patient management, communications, and manipulation of x ray equipment. COREQ: RS 3312.
Course Learning Goals: This lab uses a “hands on approach” which prepares students to practice as a radiographer. It has been designed to give the student the opportunity to simulate in a laboratory setting the radiographic positioning terms and positions that are taught in class. Additionally, the technical aspects of the exam will be presented and phantoms will be utilized to make exposures. Radiographs will be provided to label anatomy, which gives the student the opportunity to interact and to be quizzed by the course instructor. Upon completion of the course the student will be ready to perform the exams in a clinical setting.
RS 3375 Pediatric Radiography 1 credit. Study of the theory and clinical application of pediatric radiography. S
Course Learning Goals: Pediatric Radiography has been designed to give the student a knowledgeable foundation to apply during imaging procedures performed on pediatric patients in a clinical setting. Topic areas will include: psychological aspects, utilizing age appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication skills, examination considerations (pre, during, post), immobilization techniques, positioning, technical exposure factor adjustments, radiation protection, and common pathology
RS 3388 Radiation Protection 1 credit. Topics include: x-ray interaction with matter, quantities and units of radiation, biological effects of ionizing radiation, MPD, radiation detection instruments, methods to minimize radiation exposure to patients and personnel, and U.S. Government radiation control standards. S
Course Learning Goals: The student will discover the biophysical mechanisms of radiation damage and the somatic and genetic effects of radiation exposure on humans; state typical dose ranges for routine radiographic procedures; explain basic methods and instruments for radiation monitoring, detection, and measurement; and apply appropriate radiation protection practices.
RS 3389 Applied Radiography I 4 credits. Clinical applications of radiographic examinations with emphasis on chest, abdomen, and upper limb. Graded.
Course Learning Goals: During this clinical rotation the students will properly position patients for standard radiographic procedures of the Chest, Abdomen, and Upper Limb. They will demonstrate safe radiation safety practices and set technical factors to produce diagnostic quality radiographic images.
RS 3390 Applied Radiography II 4 credits. Clinical applications of radiographic examinations with emphasis on the lower extremity, hips, pelvis. Graded.
Course Learning Goals: During this clinical rotation the students will properly position patients for standard radiographic procedures of the lower extremities and pelvis/hip. They will demonstrate safe radiation safety practices and set technical factors to produce diagnostic quality radiographic images.
RS 4421 Computed Tomography 1 credit. Basics of computed tomography covering fundamentals, equipment and instrumentation, data acquisition, image processing, reconstruction, patient safety, image quality, procedures, cross-sectional anatomy, and additional applications.
Course Learning Goals: This course has been designed to provide students with an opportunity to identify and discover the events leading to the discovery of computed tomography. The goals of the course include learning outcomes which address each of the following aspects of CT: Fundamentals, Equipment and Instrumentation, Data Acquisition, Image Processing and Reconstruction, Patient Safety, Image Quality, Procedures, Sectional Anatomy, and Additional Applications. It is a self-paced introduction to CT and will provide a basis for students desiring further post baccalaureate studies. The goal is to provide all students with a fundamental understanding of CT.
RS 4430 Radiologic Pathology 2 credits. Study of the pathological processes of various diseases and disorders with emphasis on the demonstration of pathology on radiographs.
Course Learning Goals: This course has been designed to give the student a knowledgeable foundation and understanding of terms and basic radiographic manifestations of pathological conditions and their relevance to imaging procedures. Body systems covered include: respiratory system, skeletal system, GI system, urinary system, cardiovascular system, nervous system, hematopoietic system, endocrine system, and reproductive system.
RS 4441 Advanced Radiographic Methods I 1 credit. Advanced methodology, theory and principles of radiographic procedures. Designed to develop proficiency in performance of specialized radiographic examinations. PREREQ: RS 3312 and RS 3342.
Course Learning Goals: This course has been designed to give the student the opportunity to review the anatomy of the entire skeletal system. Additionally, students will expand their appreciation for the technical aspects of radiology by an in-depth study of fractures and positions utilized in trauma radiography. The course will culminate with an in-depth study of the operating room, C-arm, and additional diagnostic studies which in the past have been categorized as special procedures.
RS 4450 Introduction to Research 2 credit. An introduction to evidence-based research in radiographic science.
Course Learning Goals: This course will give students an introduction to evidence-based research in the medical imaging field. Additionally, the student will perform qualitative research by writing several papers using “peer reviewed” journals for analysis. The papers will be written in the American Medical Association format (AMA). The course will conclude with a comprehensive research paper and oral presentation of a topic that has been approved by the course instructor.
RS 4455 Alternate Imaging Modalities 1 credit. An introduction to alternate imaging modalities such as CT, MRI, mammography, interventional radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiation therapy.
Course Learning Goals: This course will study the alternate imaging modalities of computed tomography (CT), nuclear medicine (NM), ultrasonography (US), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), angiography, mammography, and radiation therapy (RT). The pedagogy will examine the mechanics and basic physics of each modality. The instruction will involve outside lectures from professionals working in each modality.
RS 4460 Introduction to Radiographic Quality Management 1 credits. Study and application of quality management techniques, which includes quality assurance and equipment maintenance procedures to assure consistency in the contrast, brightness, and spatial resolution of radiographic images and imaging department protocols and efficiencies.
Course Learning Goals: The goals of this course are to teach the necessary skills that radiographers need to become knowledgeable in quality management, quality assurance, and quality control. Government and accreditation agencies mandate that such procedures be documented and that equipment is functioning within accepted standards and is operating properly. Because many of these responsibilities have been delegated to technologists, it is imperative that students become educated in this realm of the profession and are familiar with quality management issues.
RS 4470 Advanced Radiographic Exposure 2 credits. In-depth study in establishing radiographic exposure values in new installations or when equipment is changed.
Course Learning Goals: This course is a continuation of Radiographic Exposure and has been designed to broaden and review the theory of exposure technique. A more in-depth study of AEC, digital fluoroscopy, image intensification, CR, DR, EMR, and PACS systems will presented. The goal is for the student to gain a better understanding of systems and to focus on the assortment of variables that combine to produce an acceptable study.
RS 4475 Registry Review 2 credits. In-depth registry review to prepare for the ARRT exam.
Course Learning Goal: This course will enable student radiographers to pass the ARRT certification exam.
RS 4488 Applied Radiography III 5 credits. Clinical application of radiographic examinations with emphasis on the pediatric chest, non-ambulatory chest, cervical, thoracic, lumbar spine, sacrum/coccyx, and gastrointestinal procedures. Graded.
Course Learning Goals: During this clinical rotation the students will properly position patients for standard radiographic procedures of the pediatric chest, non-ambulatory chest, cervical, thoracic, lumbar spine, sacrum/coccyx, and gastrointestinal procedures. They will demonstrate safe radiation safety practices and set technical factors to produce diagnostic quality radiographic images.
RS 4489 Applied Radiography IV 6 credits. Clinical application of radiographic examinations performed in a trauma, mobile, and surgical setting. Graded.
Course Learning Goals: During this clinical rotation the students will properly position patients for standard radiographic procedures of trauma, mobile, and surgical radiography, which includes the entire spine, upper and lower limbs, surgical C-arm procedures and portable chest, abdomen, and orthopedic procedures. They will demonstrate safe radiation safety practices and set technical factors to produce diagnostic quality radiographic images.
RS 4490 Applied Radiography V 6 credits. Clinical application of radiographic examinations including ribs, head radiography, urinary system, arthrography, and myelography. Graded.
Course Learning Goals: During this clinical rotation the students will properly position patients for standard radiographic procedures of the ribs, sternum, facial bones, nasal bones, sinuses, mandible, orbits, skull, zygomatic arches, urinary system, arthrography and myelography. They will demonstrate safe radiation safety practices and set technical factors to produce diagnostic quality radiographic images.
BIOL 4470 Cross-Sectional Anatomy 2 credits. Applied regional anatomy as viewed in sectional planes, emphasizing topographic relationships of organs and surface anatomy, with interpretation of correlated CT and MRI imaging. PREREQ: Either BIOL 3301 and BIOL 3302, or BIOL 2227 and BIOL 2228, or BIOL 2227 and BIOL 3302.
HPHY 3300 Medical electronics 2 credits. A lecture-laboratory course covering circuit theory, qualitative theory of active devices and their application to instrumentation. Computer simulations will be done to investigate basic instruments. Primarily for students in the allied health fields. COREQ: HPHY 3321.
HPHY 3321 Radiographic Physics 2 credits. Basic Physics of x-ray production and the interaction of x-rays with matter. Includes topics in medical imaging. Available to juniors in Radiographic Sciences. PREREQ: PHYS 1100.
BIOL 3307/HPHY 3307 Radiobiology 2 credits. Survey of the effects of ionizing radiation on living matter at the subcellular, cellular, and organismal levels. PREREQ: BIOL 1101 and one of the following: PHYS 1100, PHYS 1111, PHYS 2211 or HPHY 3321.
