Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

This course is an introduction to the basic principles radiographic exposure and technique and is the first in a series of three courses on
this subject. Each course builds upon information from the previous courses in the series. The student will receive instruction on the physical laws that underlie the production of x-rays in a medical environment. Secondary topics that affect x-ray production will also be discussed.
This course is required as part of the Radiologic Technology degree program. Prior to enrolling in this course the student must be accepted in the Radiologic Technology Program, and have competed Radiation Physics I. This course is also a prerequisite for taking the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists examination for certification in Radiography. Transferability of credit depends entirely upon the institution to which the student wishes to transfer.

1. Analyze technique factors influencing the radiographic image.
2. Utilize ancillary equipment in production of radiographic images.

1. Produce radiographs demonstrating exposure technique manipulations.
2. Document in writing the influence of technique factors on image quality.

Themes, issues and Concepts
Interaction of x-radiation with matter
Technical factors
Atomic structures and basic interactions
Controlling secondary and scattered radiation
Grids
History of a grid
Construction of a grid
Types of grids
Grid characteristics
Errors in use of grid
Technique conversion for grids
Grid selection
Stereoradiography
Producing stereoradiographs
Viewing stereoradiographs
Filtration
Process of filtration
Additional filters
Half-value layer
Magnification
Magnification (size distortion)
Equipment Charts
Function and Application
Skills

1. Learn the basic interactions of x-ray with matter, the technique factors affecting density and contrast, and methods of controlling scatter.
2. Explain the selection and utilization of grids.
3. Produce and view stereoradiographs.
4. Understand the use of filtration and be able to determine the half value layer on a machine.
5. Discuss how geometric relationships affect image quality.