Optimisation in Imaging with Non Ionising Radiation MPE

Details

Title

Optimisation in Imaging with Non Ionising Radiation MPE

Type

Stage Two

Module code

HPE111

Requirement

Optional

Module objective

By the end of this module the Clinical Scientist in HSST will be able to analyse, synthesise, evaluate and apply knowledge with respect to the optimisation and use of non-ionising radiation in medical imaging in their own area of Medical Physics (typically magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] or ultrasound), in a manner consistent with the roles and responsibilities of a Medical Physics Expert to ensure the safety and efficacy of non-ionising imaging procedures for patients.

Knowledge and understanding

By the end of this module the Clinical Scientist in HSST will be able to analyse, synthesise, evaluate and apply knowledge in their own area of Medical Physics practice, and will:

• Describe and appraise the role of imaging in the patient pathway.
• Describe normal and pathological appearances in imaging, including areas of pathological interest and normal tissue.
• Describe the role of imaging procedures in diagnosis, therapy and treatment response evaluation.
• Describe and critically evaluate the use of mathematical techniques to derive quantitative indices from images.
• List and explain target imaging outcomes (e.g. in terms of image quality criteria) relevant to diagnostic effectiveness.
• Compare and contrast the technical performance and clinical application of different imaging techniques.
• Analyse and compare the technical performance of various modalities/techniques.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the clinical applications of each modality/technique, the variables involved and how they can be derived and compared, including the adaptions needed for specific patient groups, e.g. paediatrics.
• Appraise alternative methods of image acquisition and processing, including an understanding of the advantages and limitations of each technique and how they may be applicable to local clinical practice.
• Explain the mathematical techniques used in image reconstruction and post-processing.
• Recognise, and understand the origins of, image artefacts and advise on methods for their mitigation.
• Critically evaluate the risk to patients from non-ionising radiation, including those from research exposures.
• Explain the principles of patient risk management as applied to non-ionising radiations in their own area of Medical Physics practice.
• Describe the process and practical implementation of patient risk assessments in their own area of Medical Physics practice, using techniques for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of risk.
• Explain how research exposures are managed in their own area of Medical Physics practice, including the processes of ethical review and including the use of dose constraints where appropriate.
• Appraise alternative methods of imaging, including an understanding of the strengths and limitations of each technique.

Technical and clinical skills

By the end of the module the Clinical Scientist in HSST will be able to critically apply their knowledge and understanding to develop and evaluate investigative strategies/procedures/processes that take account of relevant clinical and scientific evidence and other sources of information and would be expected to critically reflect on their performance as they apply in practice a range of clinical skills and will be able to:

• Critically apply their understanding of the measurement of image quality through:
  • assessing imaging device performance levels requirements and scanning settings for specific clinical tasks for a variety of applications;
  • making quantifiable measurements of image quality using appropriate test objects.
• Critically apply their understanding of imaging equipment and techniques by:
  • applying the theory of image acquisition, reconstruction and post-processing to achieve optimal image quality/quantitative results for a specific clinical task;
  • giving advice on the choice of imaging modality and/or techniques for a specific clinical task;
  • giving advice regarding protocol modifications for the needs of particular patients in studies that are complex, unusual, beyond-protocol and non- predictable;
  • advising on protocol modifications with respect to diagnostic effectiveness and safety;
  • performing qualitative and/or quantitative image analysis tasks that are complex, unusual, beyond-protocol, or non-predictable.
• Critically apply their knowledge of the physical and biological effects of non- ionising radiation to patient protection by:
  • using this knowledge to estimate patient risk;
  • applying relevant safety guidelines to patient protection;
  • evaluating the use of imaging with non-ionising radiation within clinical trials and advising on the optimisation of research exposures.

Attitudes and behaviours

By the end of this module the Clinical Scientist in HSST will be expected to evaluate their own response to both normal and complex situations, demonstrating the professional attributes and insights required of a Consultant Clinical Scientist working within the limits of professional competence, referring as appropriate to senior staff, and will:

• Show respect and behave in accordance with Good Scientific Practice.
• Establish and influence the culture of health and safety in the workplace.
• Have a clear focus on effective patient-centred service delivery, minimising risk and promoting patient safety.