Program Description:
A radiographer works with equipment that generates x-rays to produce images of the body for evaluation and diagnosis of disease. The radiographer must be able to evaluate radiographic images, position the body to demonstrate anatomical parts, practice safe radiation rules and provide sound patient care. In addition, the individual must be physically able to transfer patients from beds to wheelchairs and to move heavy equipment.
Radiographers must follow physician’s orders precisely and conform to regulations concerning use of radiation to protect themselves, their patients, and coworkers from unnecessary exposure. In addition to preparing patients and operating equipment, radiographers keep patient records and adjust and maintain equipment. They may also prepare work schedules, evaluate equipment purchases, or manage a radiology department.
A radiographer has opportunities to work in general diagnostic areas, fluoroscopy, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammography, or cardiovascular radiology departments.
Mission Statement
In keeping with the mission of the college, the Radiography Program’s mission is to educate competent entry-level radiographers to meet the needs of the ever changing, diverse and multicultural health care community, as well as, continuing to expand their fund of knowledge. The program accomplishes this by integrating didactic and clinical instruction in facilities that are conducive to learning and providing opportunities for he advancement of technical skills. The goals of the program include:
Providing an education that demonstrates ethical and cultural awareness and professional development
Enduring student access and student success through comprehensive student services.
Maintaining outstanding clinical performance and competency
Insuring overall program effectiveness
Developing problem solving capabilities and critical thinking skills
Practicing effective communication skills
The Program faculty members have determined the basic individual characteristics and qualities that one must possess to meet success as a student radiographer. The basic characteristics and qualities are as follows:
Read and write at college level.
Perform basic mathematical functions.
Have adequate vision, hearing, and the use of both arms and legs to move, push, pull and lift patients.
Be able to stoop, bend, and stand for long periods of time.
Be physically fit with the ability to move wheelchairs, stretchers and heavy mobile x-ray equipment.
Be able to function within a high stress hospital environment and in emergency situations be able to move rapidly and accurately.
Be able to use independent judgment in decision making with patient care and technical procedures.
Demonstrate many interpersonal skills in getting along with other students and especially the staff of clinical education centers.
Be clean and neat in personal appearance for dress and personal hygiene.
Demonstrate self-motivation in accomplishing personal goals within the program.
Be willing to follow college and program policies and procedures as outlined in Student Handbook and Catalog.
Communicate effectively in verbal and written aspects of the English language.
The radiographer is an important member of the health care team. The Radiography Program at Houston Community College has set forth the following objectives or measurable student learning outcomes which are a basic description of the profession. Upon completion of the program, the graduate should be able to meet the following objectives, with or without accommodations:
Use oral and written communication effectively.
Apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, positioning, radiographic techniques and imaging receptors.
Calculate and determine exposure factors to achieve optimum radiographic techniques with minimum radiation exposure to the patient.
Evaluate radiographic images for appropriate positioning and image quality.
Apply the principles of radiation protection for the patient, self and others.
Provide quality patient care and comfort.
Recognize emergency patient conditions and initiate lifesaving first-aid and basic life-support procedures.
Evaluate the performance of radiologic systems, know and understand the safe limits of equipment operation, report malfunctions to the proper personnel.
Exercise independent judgment in the technical performance of radiographic procedures.
Apply principles of proper body mechanics in the movement and lifting of patients.
Modify routine/standard procedures to accommodate for patient condition and other variables.
Process radiograph and or images using the automatic processor and or digital reader.
Demonstrate knowledge and skills relating to quality assurance of images and equipment.
Demonstrate responsibility and accountability in the application of clinical education assignments and attendance record.
Demonstrate problem solving skills and critical thinking.
Demonstrate professional working standards with patients, hospital staff and administrators.