Mt. SAC Important Message

New Numbers, Same Classes! Some of our most important general education classes have new course numbers and names effective this Fall. Don't miss your GE requirements and read your Mountie email for more information!

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Student Learning Outcomes

Discipline: Technology & Health: Radiologic Technology
Course Name Course Number
Clinical Experience 1A RAD 1A
  • The student will position the patient and image receptor to achieve accurate demonstration of the affected body part.
  • Demonstrate professional behavior and adherence to radiographer practice standards.
  • Demonstrate ethical practice and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all clinical interactions.
  • Perform patient assessments, including recording of clinical history and physical/mental status evaluation.
  • Provide safe and effective patient-centered care, including adaptation to individual patient needs and effective communication.
  • Adapt radiographic procedures in response to societal, cultural, and individual patient factors.
  • Apply principles of radiation protection for patients, self, and others, including shielding, exposure factors, and monitoring.
  • Perform patient positioning to accurately demonstrate required anatomy.
  • Acquire diagnostic-quality images using proper technical factors and equipment operation.
  • Operate radiographic equipment competently, including troubleshooting and technical adjustments.
  • Critique images for positioning, image quality, patient identification, and implement corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
  • Demonstrate safe patient handling, transfers, immobilization, and adherence to institutional policies for infection control and emergency response.
Clinical Experience 1B RAD 1B
  • Demonstrate professional behavior and adherence to radiographer practice standards.
  • Demonstrate ethical practice and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all clinical interactions.
  • Perform patient assessments, including recording of clinical history and physical/mental status evaluation.
  • Provide safe and effective patient-centered care, including adaptation to individual patient needs and effective communication.
  • Adapt radiographic procedures in response to societal, cultural, and individual patient factors.
  • Apply principles of radiation protection for patients, self, and others, including shielding, exposure factors, and monitoring.
  • Perform patient positioning to accurately demonstrate required anatomy.
  • Acquire diagnostic-quality images using proper technical factors and equipment operation.
  • Operate radiographic equipment competently, including troubleshooting and technical adjustments.
  • Critique images for positioning, image quality, patient identification, and implement corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
  • Student will determine corrective measures for non-diagnostic images
Clinical Experience 2A RAD 2A
  • The student will be able to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to perform job related functions.
  • Demonstrate professional behavior and adherence to radiographer practice standards.
  • Demonstrate ethical practice and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all clinical interactions.
  • Perform patient assessments, including recording of clinical history and physical/mental status evaluation.
  • Provide safe and effective patient-centered care, including adaptation to individual patient needs and effective communication.
  • Adapt radiographic procedures in response to societal, cultural, and individual patient factors.
  • Apply principles of radiation protection for patients, self, and others, including shielding, exposure factors, and monitoring.
  • Perform patient positioning to accurately demonstrate required anatomy.
  • Acquire diagnostic-quality images using proper technical factors and equipment operation.
  • Operate radiographic equipment competently, including troubleshooting and technical adjustments.
  • Critique images for positioning, image quality, patient identification, and implement corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
  • Demonstrate safe patient handling, transfers, immobilization, and adherence to institutional policies for infection control and emergency response.
Clinical Experience 2B RAD 2B
  • Demonstrate professional behavior and adherence to radiographer practice standards.
  • Demonstrate ethical practice and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all clinical interactions.
  • Perform patient assessments, including recording of clinical history and physical/mental status evaluation.
  • Provide safe and effective patient-centered care, including adaptation to individual patient needs and effective communication.
  • Adapt radiographic procedures in response to societal, cultural, and individual patient factors.
  • Apply principles of radiation protection for patients, self, and others, including shielding, exposure factors, and monitoring.
  • Perform patient positioning to accurately demonstrate required anatomy.
  • Acquire diagnostic-quality images using proper technical factors and equipment operation.
  • Operate radiographic equipment competently, including troubleshooting and technical adjustments.
  • Critique images for positioning, image quality, patient identification, and implement corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
  • Demonstrate safe patient handling, transfers, immobilization, and adherence to institutional policies for infection control and emergency response.
  • The student will demonstrate appropriate level of understanding of radiographic procedures.
Clinical Experience 3A RAD 3A
  • The student will position the patient and image receptor to achieve accurate demonstration of the affected body part.
  • Critique images for positioning, image quality, patient identification, and implement corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
  • Demonstrate safe patient handling, transfers, immobilization, and adherence to institutional policies for infection control and emergency response.
  • Demonstrate professional behavior and adherence to radiographer practice standards.
  • Demonstrate ethical practice and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all clinical interactions.
  • Perform patient assessments, including recording of clinical history and physical/mental status evaluation.
  • Provide safe and effective patient-centered care, including adaptation to individual patient needs and effective communication.
  • Adapt radiographic procedures in response to societal, cultural, and individual patient factors.
  • Apply principles of radiation protection for patients, self, and others, including shielding, exposure factors, and monitoring.
  • Perform patient positioning to accurately demonstrate required anatomy.
  • Acquire diagnostic-quality images using proper technical factors and equipment operation.
  • Operate radiographic equipment competently, including troubleshooting and technical adjustments.
Clinical Experience 3B RAD 3B
  • Demonstrate professional behavior and adherence to radiographer practice standards.
  • Demonstrate ethical practice and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all clinical interactions.
  • Perform patient assessments, including recording of clinical history and physical/mental status evaluation.
  • Provide safe and effective patient-centered care, including adaptation to individual patient needs and effective communication.
  • Adapt radiographic procedures in response to societal, cultural, and individual patient factors.
  • Apply principles of radiation protection for patients, self, and others, including shielding, exposure factors, and monitoring.
  • Perform patient positioning to accurately demonstrate required anatomy.
  • Acquire diagnostic-quality images using proper technical factors and equipment operation.
  • Operate radiographic equipment competently, including troubleshooting and technical adjustments.
  • Critique images for positioning, image quality, patient identification, and implement corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
  • Demonstrate safe patient handling, transfers, immobilization, and adherence to institutional policies for infection control and emergency response.
  • The student will select technical factors producing quality diagnostic images with the lowest possible radiation exposure.
Clinical Experience 3C RAD 3C
  • The student will critique images for appropriate anatomy, accuracy of positioning, image quality, and patient identification.
  • Demonstrate safe patient handling, transfers, immobilization, and adherence to institutional policies for infection control and emergency response.
  • Demonstrate professional behavior and adherence to radiographer practice standards.
  • Demonstrate ethical practice and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all clinical interactions.
  • Perform patient assessments, including recording of clinical history and physical/mental status evaluation.
  • Provide safe and effective patient-centered care, including adaptation to individual patient needs and effective communication.
  • Adapt radiographic procedures in response to societal, cultural, and individual patient factors.
  • Apply principles of radiation protection for patients, self, and others, including shielding, exposure factors, and monitoring.
  • Perform patient positioning to accurately demonstrate required anatomy.
  • Acquire diagnostic-quality images using proper technical factors and equipment operation.
  • Operate radiographic equipment competently, including troubleshooting and technical adjustments.
  • Critique images for positioning, image quality, patient identification, and implement corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
Clinical Experience 4 RAD 4
  • Demonstrate professional behavior and adherence to radiographer practice standards.
  • Demonstrate ethical practice and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all clinical interactions.
  • Perform patient assessments, including recording of clinical history and physical/mental status evaluation.
  • Provide safe and effective patient-centered care, including adaptation to individual patient needs and effective communication.
  • Adapt radiographic procedures in response to societal, cultural, and individual patient factors.
  • Apply principles of radiation protection for patients, self, and others, including shielding, exposure factors, and monitoring.
  • Perform patient positioning to accurately demonstrate required anatomy.
  • Acquire diagnostic-quality images using proper technical factors and equipment operation.
  • Operate radiographic equipment competently, including troubleshooting and technical adjustments.
  • Critique images for positioning, image quality, patient identification, and implement corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
  • Demonstrate safe patient handling, transfers, immobilization, and adherence to institutional policies for infection control and emergency response.
  • Student/Graduate will critique images to determine diagnostic quality.
Computed Tomography Clinical Experience 7A RAD 7A
  • The student will demonstrate appropriate level of understanding of procedures and protocols.
  • Demonstrate professional behavior, ethical standards, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in a clinical CT setting.
  • Provide patient-centered care, including assessment, education, and communication, while maintaining confidentiality and adhering to HIPAA standards.
  • Apply radiation protection principles and safety practices to minimize exposure during CT procedures.
  • Demonstrate competency in performing mandatory CT procedures in compliance with ARRT requirements, including scheduling, positioning, parameter selection, and image acquisition.
  • Analyze images for diagnostic quality and apply corrective measures to address non-diagnostic images.
  • Operate informatics systems to process, analyze, and manage CT scan data while maintaining security and confidentiality.
  • Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to adapt CT procedures based on patient and situational factors.
  • Apply safe practices in CT clinical settings, including patient considerations, environmental safety, body mechanics, patient transfer, fall prevention, positioning, immobilization, policy compliance, incident reporting, and medical error reduction.
Computed Tomography Clinical Experience 7B RAD 7B
  • Demonstrate professional behavior, ethical standards, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in a clinical CT setting.
  • Provide patient-centered care, including assessment, education, and communication, while maintaining confidentiality and adhering to HIPAA standards.
  • Apply radiation protection principles and safety practices to minimize exposure during CT procedures.
  • Demonstrate competency in performing mandatory CT procedures in compliance with ARRT requirements, including scheduling, positioning, parameter selection, and image acquisition.
  • Analyze images to determine diagnostic quality and apply corrective measures to address non-diagnostic images.
  • Operate informatics systems to process, analyze, and manage CT scan data while maintaining security and confidentiality.
  • Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to adapt CT procedures based on patient and situational factors.
  • Apply safe practices in CT clinical settings, including patient considerations, environmental safety, body mechanics, patient transfer, fall prevention, positioning, immobilization, policy compliance, incident reporting, and medical error reduction.
  • The student will determine corrective measures to improve inadequate images.
Computed Tomography Physics and Instrumentation RAD 72
  • Explain quality control procedures and quality assurance programs for maintaining CT imaging standards.
  • Examine current and emerging CT technological innovations and their potential impact on medical diagnostics.
  • Describe radiation protection principles to minimize exposure and ensure ethical practices for patients and healthcare personnel.
  • Compare data acquisition methods in CT and analyze their impact on image quality and clinical applications.
  • Evaluate the impact of imaging parameters, patient positioning, and artifacts on CT image quality and describe strategies for artifact reduction.
  • Describe the role of informatics and digital systems in CT image management and evaluate their impact on clinical decision-making.
  • Explain the fundamental principles of x-ray production and photon interactions with matter and their role in generating diagnostic CT images.
  • Identify CT scanner components and explain their roles in image formation, reconstruction processes, and postprocessing techniques.
Computed Tomography Procedures and Patient Care RAD 71
  • Discuss radiation safety and dosimetry in CT
  • Explain CT procedures for various anatomical regions, special applications, and patient populations.
  • Explain patient assessment, preparation, and safety protocols for CT procedures
  • Describe contrast media administration and management for CT procedures.
  • Identify procedural elements for standard and modified CT imaging protocols.
  • Explain technical parameters for CT imaging protocols
  • The student will recognize factors surrounding safe methods of contrast administration used in computed tomography exams.
Computed Tomography Sectional Anatomy and Pathology RAD 70
  • The student will identify various anatomic structures displayed on axial, multiplanar, and three-dimensional computed tomography images.
  • Identify major anatomical structures on cross-sectional CT images of the head, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and extremities.
  • Differentiate between normal and abnormal anatomy on CT images.
  • Describe the etiology and symptoms of common diseases across major body systems.
  • Correlate CT imaging characteristics with common diseases across major body systems.
  • Explain how CT imaging is used to diagnose and monitor selected pathologies.
  • Apply anatomical terminology (planes, cavities, landmarks) to describe locations and orientations in CT images.
Digital Imaging in Radiology RAD 32
  • Explain the process of acquiring digital radiographic images, including receptor selection, exposure, and initial image capture.
  • Select and justify appropriate technical factors (kVp, mAs, SID, grids) to optimize image quality and minimize radiation exposure.
  • Describe post-processing techniques applied to digital images and how they affect image quality.
  • Explain image display characteristics and appropriate viewing conditions.
  • Evaluate radiographs for brightness, contrast, spatial resolution, distortion, and overall image quality, and describe corrective measures for suboptimal images.
  • Discuss quality management and continuous quality improvement (CQI) techniques for digital radiography.
  • Describe medical image management systems, storage, transfer, and downtime procedures in radiology departments.
  • The student will relate the exposure indicator values to technical factors and patient exposure.
Fluoroscopy and Radiobiology RAD 31
  • The student will be able to analyze how radiation will causes deterministic effects.
  • Describe principles of patient radiation safety, including ALARA, shielding, beam restriction, filtration, equipment features, and pediatric dose reduction strategies.
  • Explain quality control and quality assurance procedures for fluoroscopy equipment and accessories, including recognizing malfunctions and reporting responsibilities.
  • Describe the elements, operation, and components of fluoroscopy systems, including image intensifiers, flat panel detectors, viewing, and recording systems.
  • Explain the physics of radiation relevant to fluoroscopic procedures, including x-ray production and photon interactions with matter.
  • Describe methods to minimize personnel radiation exposure, including protective devices, monitoring procedures, regulatory requirements, and NCRP recommendations.
Introduction to Radiologic Science and Health Care RAD 50
  • Identify healthcare professions and settings involved in patient care and describe their roles and interrelationships.
  • Explain legal, regulatory, and ethical concepts in radiologic practice, including torts, informed consent, patients’ rights, and professional standards.
  • Describe radiation safety principles for patients and personnel, including ALARA, shielding, personnel monitoring, and appropriate exposure factors.
  • Discuss quality management, quality assurance, and accreditation processes in healthcare and radiology departments.
  • Explain professional responsibilities, career opportunities, credentialing, and the benefits of continuing education in radiologic technology practice.
  • The student will differentiate various healthcare environments.
Mammography Principles and Procedures RAD 40
  • Students will identify the internal anatomy and external anatomy of the breast
  • Students will comprehend the BI-RADS classification system
  • Students will identify the signs and symptoms of breast cancer
  • Students will critique mammographic images to determine diagnostic quality.
  • Students will determine corrective measures for nondiagnostic mammographic images.
  • Students will conduct a comprehensive patient assessment
  • Students will explain the impact of key technical factors (kVp, mAs, compression thickness, target, filter, focal spot, grids, and magnification) on image quality.
Patient Care in Radiologic Technology RAD 91
  • Students will develop knowledge of effective communication.
  • Describe the roles and responsibilities of the healthcare facility, healthcare team members, and the radiographer in patient care.
  • Assess patient physical and psychological needs, including vital signs and laboratory data.
  • Demonstrate effective communication techniques with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
  • Apply infection control and safety procedures using standard precautions, including handling of medical devices, patient transfer, immobilization, and environmental safety.
  • Perform venipuncture and intravenous (IV) line procedures using correct anatomy, instruments, solutions, techniques, and post-puncture care.
  • Explain the pharmacology, administration, and patient care considerations for contrast agents.
  • Recognize and respond appropriately to medical emergencies, including allergic reactions and complications from contrast administration.
  • Explain the radiographer’s role in patient education, including procedure explanations and instructions.
  • Adapt care to account for patient age, culture, or special considerations.
Radiobiology RAD 33
  • Identify methods to measure radiation responses and interpret dose-response relationships for biological effects.
  • Describe short-term and long-term biological effects of radiation exposure, including total versus partial body effects and their clinical significance.
  • Explain factors influencing cellular radiosensitivity, including physical, chemical, and biologic determinants, and variations among cell types.
  • Describe principles to minimize patient and personnel radiation exposure, including ALARA, protective devices, and sources of exposure.
  • Discuss the molecular and cellular effects of ionizing radiation, including somatic, genetic, embryo/fetal effects, and radiation-induced malignancies.
Radiographic Pathology RAD 30
  • Explain the relevance of pathology to radiographic procedures and specialized imaging techniques.
  • Explain common terms related to pathology and disease processes.
  • Explain the causes of disease, including pathological, traumatic, congenital, and genetic factors.
  • Explain radiologic pathology of major body systems, including complications, radiographic appearance, and procedural considerations.
  • Explain and compare various fractures and abnormalities as seen on radiographs.
  • The student will identify pathology presented on the radiographic images provided.
Radiographic Procedures I RAD 61B
  • The student will determine the central ray direction for each projection
  • Identify anatomical structures demonstrated on routine radiographic images, including bones, bone markings, and joints.
  • Explain positioning techniques, projections, and procedural steps for the chest, abdomen, extremities, shoulder girdle, pelvis, and hip.
  • Analyze radiographs for positioning, centering, anatomy, and overall diagnostic quality, and determine corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
  • Describe patient considerations, preparation, and communication techniques tailored to various clinical situations.
  • Explain radiation protection principles related to radiographic procedures.
  • Describe the use of positioning aids and equipment necessary for radiographic procedures.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of contrast studies, mobile, and surgical radiographic procedures, including patient preparation, positioning, equipment use, and radiation safety.
Radiographic Procedures II RAD 62B
  • Determine and apply corrective measures for non-diagnostic radiographs.
  • Describe patient considerations, preparation, and communication techniques tailored to routine, mobile, surgical, and atypical clinical situations.
  • Explain radiation protection principles for patients and personnel during radiographic procedures.
  • Describe the use of positioning aids and equipment necessary for radiographic procedures.
  • Identify anatomical structures demonstrated on routine radiographic images, including bones, bone markings, and joints for the vertebral column, bony thorax, cranium, digestive, and urinary systems.
  • Explain positioning techniques, projections, and procedural steps for the vertebral column, bony thorax, cranium, digestive system, and urinary system.
  • Analyze radiographs for correct positioning, centering, and demonstrated anatomy.
  • The student will determine the central ray direction for each projection
Radiologic Procedures I Laboratory RAD 61C
  • The student will identify a diagnostic image of the affected body part.
  • Apply radiation safety principles for patients, self, and others, including appropriate use of shielding, collimation, beam restrictors, grids, and technical factors.
  • Identify anatomical structures demonstrated on routine radiographic images, including bones, bone markings, and joints.
  • Explain positioning techniques, projections, and procedural steps for the chest, abdomen, extremities, shoulder girdle, pelvis, and hip.
  • Analyze radiographs for positioning, centering, anatomy, and overall diagnostic quality, and determine corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
  • Describe and select appropriate positioning aids and equipment necessary for radiographic procedures.
  • Select technical factors (kVp, mAs, SID) and operate radiographic equipment to produce diagnostic-quality images.
  • Demonstrate professional behavior, including proper use of lead markers and safe operation of radiographic equipment in the lab setting.
  • Demonstrate effective patient communication, preparation, and adaptation of procedures based on patient needs.
Radiologic Procedures II Laboratory RAD 62C
  • Demonstrate effective patient communication, preparation, and adaptation of procedures based on patient needs.
  • Apply radiation safety principles for patients, self, and others, including appropriate use of shielding, collimation, beam restrictors, grids, and technical factors.
  • Identify anatomical structures demonstrated on routine radiographic images, including organs, bones, bony processes, and bony depressions.
  • Explain positioning techniques, projections, and procedural steps for the vertebral column, bony thorax, cranium, digestive system, and urinary system.
  • Select appropriate image receptor, grid, and technical factors (kVp, mAs, SID) to produce diagnostic-quality radiographs with minimal radiation exposure.
  • Analyze radiographs for positioning, centering, anatomy, and overall diagnostic quality, and determine corrective measures for non-diagnostic images.
  • Describe and select appropriate positioning aids and equipment necessary for radiographic procedures.
  • Demonstrate professional behavior, including proper use of lead markers and safe operation of radiographic equipment in the lab setting.
Theory of Radiologic Technology RAD 62A
  • Explain principles of x-ray production, photon interactions with matter, and factors affecting x-ray emission spectra.
  • Apply quality control techniques and problem-solving processes for evaluating radiographs, grid use, AEC function, and equipment performance.
  • Describe imaging equipment, digital imaging systems, and components including AEC devices, grids, and image receptors.
  • Explain the technical factors affecting radiographic imaging, including kVp, mAs, SID, grid use, and automatic exposure control.
  • Analyze image quality factors, including brightness, contrast, spatial resolution, distortion, noise, and automatic rescaling, and determine how each factor impacts diagnostic quality.
  • Explain radiation protection principles for patients and personnel, including beam-restricting devices, shielding, and exposure monitoring.
Theory of Radiologic Technology RAD 61A
  • Describe fundamental atomic structure, including nucleus, protons, electrons, binding energy, valence shell, ionization, excitation, atomic number, and mass number.
  • Explain types of radiation (electromagnetic, particulate), differences between ionizing and nonionizing radiation, and sources of radiation.
  • Define radiation and radioactivity units of measure, including exposure, absorbed dose, kerma, and effective dose.
  • Identify components and functions of radiographic equipment, including x-ray tubes, circuits, AEC devices, and mobile units.
  • Explain exposure factors, technique charts, and relationships affecting image quality, including kVp, mAs, filtration, and distance.
  • Describe radiation protection methods for patients and personnel, including time, distance, shielding, and regulatory considerations.
Theory of Radiologic Technology RAD 64
  • Explain factors that impact image acquisition, display, archiving, and retrieval in digital imaging.
  • Evaluate radiographic images for quality and adherence to optimal imaging standards.
  • Describe the role of federal and state regulatory agencies, accreditation agencies, and healthcare organizations in radiologic practice.
  • Describe ethical and legal principles relevant to radiologic practice, including patient consent and professional standards.
  • Explain optimal patient care concepts including physical and psychological needs, routine and emergency procedures, and infection control.
  • Explain radiation protection practices for patients, personnel, and the public.
  • Describe principles of radiobiology and factors affecting biological response to radiation
  • Describe components, operation, and principles of radiographic, fluoroscopic, and mobile equipment.
  • Analyze factors affecting image production, including exposure factors, grids, and image receptors.
  • Determine causes of suboptimal images and determines corrective measures.
  • Apply basic radiation dose estimation and conversion factors.
  • Describe radiation production, photon interactions with matter, and basic atomic structure.
  • Explain principles of pharmacology, drug safety, and contrast agents relevant to radiology.
  • Discuss continuous quality improvement, quality assurance, and quality control processes in radiology.
Theory of Radiologic Technology RAD 61A
  • The student will identify the function of the X-ray Circuitry.
Theory of Radiologic Technology RAD 64
  • The student will describe the major components in a typical x-ray system and their function.
Theory of Radiologic Technology RAD 63
  • Compare advanced imaging modalities by explaining equipment principles, types of radiation, and safety considerations.
  • Explain the basic principles of computed tomography, including system components, common protocols, and radiation protection practices.
  • Evaluate the role of contrast media in special and advanced imaging studies by describing types, dosages, routes of administration, and related patient care considerations.
  • Summarize education, training, and certification requirements for advanced imaging specialties.
Theory of Radiologic Technology RAD 62A
  • The student will be able to understand how to decrease scatter radiation on a radiographic image.
Theory of Radiologic Technology RAD 63
  • Explain special imaging studies by describing indications, patient preparation, procedural considerations, and image evaluation criteria.