The student will be able to:

1. Describe the history, purpose, and principles of radiography in a clinical setting, and the role of the veterinary technician in obtaining diagnostic quality radiographs.
2. Apply principles of radiation physics, exposure factor settings, and patient positioning to the production of diagnostic radiographs.
3. List and explain the parts of an X-ray machine and the ancillary equipment and supplies required to produce the radiographic image.
4. Integrate the knowledge of the various factors that affect radiographic image quality, and perform proper radiographic examinations of small and large animal patients.
5. Protect personnel and patients from ionizing radiation, and demonstrate proper radiation safety procedures when working around ionizing radiation.
6. Conduct the common special diagnostic procedures in veterinary radiography.
7. Describe ultrasonic imaging technology: creation of U/S images, use and maintenance of equipment.
8. Discuss alternate imaging modalities, including MRI and CT.

1. History, purpose, and principles of radiography
   1. History of human and veterinary radiology
   2. Physics of radiation
   3. Principles of generators, transformers, rectification
   4. Patient positioning
   5. Safe operating procedures for patients and personnel
2. Principles of radiation physics, exposure factor settings, and patient positioning
   1. Voltage, amperage, electricity, electrons
   2. X-ray head, anode, cathode
   3. Generation and targeting of primary beam
   4. Grids, trays, buckeys, collimation
   5. Measuring patient, determining technique, kVp, mAs
   6. Radiographic recording
3. Parts of an X-ray machine, ancillary equipment, and supplies
   1. Tube and tube stand
   2. Height adjustment
   3. Table
   4. Control panel
   5. Electrical supply and emergency shut-off
4. Factors affecting radiographic image quality
   1. Milliampere-seconds (milliamperage, time)
   2. Distance: inverse square law
   3. Kilovoltage (kVp)
   4. Distortion
   5. Artifacts
5. Perform proper radiographic examinations of small and large animal patients
   1. Assess radiograph quality, positioning, and collimation
6. Properly care for equipment
   1. Use of product manual
   2. Cleaning, regular maintenance of machine
   3. Periodic maintenance by qualified service person
7. Proper radiation safety procedures for personnel and patients
   1. Government and state requirements
   2. Knowledge of ALARA
   3. Proper use of safety equipment
   4. Monitoring badges
   5. Knowledge of rights and requirements for special conditions (e.g., pregnancy)
   6. Techniques to minimize repeat exposure
8. Common special diagnostic procedures in veterinary radiography
   1. Survey images
   2. Positive contrast techniques
   3. Negative contrast techniques
9. Ultrasonic (U/S) imaging technology
   1. Ultrasound machines
   2. Piezoelectric crystals
   3. Principles of U/S wave generation and recording
   4. Factors that enhance or limit U/S imaging
   5. B and M mode techniques
   6. Proper use and maintenance of U/S equipment
10. Alternate imaging modalities
    1. Discuss the basic principles of MRI, CT, nuclear medicine
    2. Safe use of equipment
    3. Patient selection, preparation, positioning
    4. Pros and cons of each modality
    5. Technician's role for each modality

1. Study of veterinary radiographic anatomy using models, manikins, prepared anatomic skeletons, and live animals
2. Demonstration and performance of all steps required to produce a diagnostic radiograph, including proper exposure settings and patient positioning
3. Ultrasound training using animals
4. Emphasis is on skill development and hands-on experience in all required areas pertinent to this course
5. Produce diagnostic radiographs
   1. Small animal
   2. Large animal
   3. Contrast study
6. Assess and critique radiograph quality, positioning, and collimation
   1. Identification of organs, normal and abnormal pathology

Written quizzes and examinations
Compilation of a written educational handout covering principles of radiation safety and giving an oral presentation on this topic
Taking diagnostic quality radiographs of common views (lateral, ventrodorsal abdomen, thorax, hips, extremities)
Demonstrate ability to assess radiographs
Perform safety check on PPEs

Lecture
Discussion
Laboratory
Demonstration

Brown M., and L.C. Brown. Lavin's Radiography for Veterinary Technicians. 2024.

California Veterinary Medical Board, Veterinary Radiation Control Regulations (2012), www.vmb.ca.gov/inspections/radiation.shtml (most up-to-date version)

1. Reading assignments from text, class handouts, and outside sources, ranging from 30-100 pages per week.
2. Critical thinking assignment involving assessment of clinical cases and use of imaging. Selection of appropriate diagnostic techniques and nursing assessments.
3. Quizzes.
4. Laboratory practical examination at the end of the quarter.
5. California veterinary medicine radiation safety quizzes.