Training activity information
Details
Create a workflow map of the clinical MRI service in the department, highlight the pulse sequences used for investigation of routine clinical examinations for a range of body parts, and why particular sequences are chosen to answer each clinical question
Type
Developmental training activity (DTA)
Evidence requirements
Evidence the activity has been undertaken by the trainee.
Reflection on the activity at one or more time points after the event including learning from the activity and/or areas of the trainees practice for development.
An action plan to implement learning and/or to address skills or knowledge gaps identified.
Considerations
- Choice of scanning parameters for routine examinations at the center
- Advantages/disadvantages of 1.5T vs 3T for a range of routine examinations
- Appearance of normal and pathological images
- Roles of the multidisciplinary team
Reflective practice guidance
The guidance below is provided to support reflection at different time points, providing you with questions to aid you to reflect for this training activity. They are provided for guidance and should not be considered as a mandatory checklist. Trainees should not be expected to provide answers to each of the guidance questions listed.
Before action
- Consider specific insights you hope to gain regarding the operational aspects of the MRI department.
- Think about your current knowledge of MRI pulse sequences and their relationship to clinical indications.
- Anticipate learning about the factors that influence the choice of MRI sequences for various body parts and pathologies.
- Consider how the workflow map contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the MRI service.
- Discuss the scope and level of detail required for the workflow map with your training officer.
- Review documentation or information about the MRI department’s structure and processes (if available).
- Familiarise yourself with common MRI pulse sequence names and their basic principles.
- Consider approaching experienced MRI staff for information on typical workflows and sequence selection.
- Reflect on your current understanding of clinical MRI examinations and pulse sequence parameters.
In action
- Pay attention to your actions. How are you approaching the mapping of the workflow and identifying the pulse sequences and their rationales? Why are you doing it this way?
- What decisions are you making as you gather information and construct the workflow map?
- What aspects of understanding the clinical applications of MRI and pulse sequences feel intuitive, and what requires more conscious effort?
- How effective are your actions in creating a comprehensive and accurate workflow map and explaining the choice of pulse sequences?
- What challenges are you facing in understanding the clinical protocols and their rationale?
- What can you learn about the MRI workflow and the relationship between pulse sequences and clinical questions as it unfolds?
- How does this activity connect to your existing knowledge of MRI principles and applications?
- Are there alternative approaches you could be considering for mapping the workflow or understanding the rationale behind sequence selection?
- What support or guidance might you need in this moment to understand specific aspects of the workflow or pulse sequences?
- Are you focusing on the relevant aspects of the MRI service and pulse sequences?
On action
- What were the key stages in the clinical MRI service workflow?
- What routine clinical examinations did you focus on?
- What pulse sequences were commonly used for these examinations?
- What were the rationales for choosing particular sequences for specific clinical questions?
- How did mapping the workflow enhance your understanding of the MRI service?
- What did you learn about the relationship between pulse sequences and clinical information?
- How did this activity improve your understanding of the clinical application of MRI?
- How will this knowledge influence your understanding of MRI protocols and their clinical relevance?
- What further learning could you undertake to deepen your understanding of MRI pulse sequences?
- What support or resources might you need to further develop your understanding in this area?
Beyond action
- Look back at the workflow map you created. Has the MRI service workflow changed since then? How accurate was your initial understanding of the process?
- Consider if your understanding of MRI pulse sequences and their clinical applications has deepened through further study or practical experience. Would you highlight different sequences or reasons now?
- Have discussions with radiologists or senior radiographers provided additional context or nuances to the choice of pulse sequences for different clinical questions?
- How has this activity improved your understanding of the overall clinical context of MRI scanning and the importance of selecting appropriate pulse sequences for diagnostic purposes? Has this knowledge enhanced your ability to observe and understand clinical MRI scans or discuss scanning parameters?
- How will a comprehensive understanding of MRI workflows and pulse sequence selection be beneficial in future roles involving protocol optimisation or training of new staff?
- What further exploration of advanced pulse sequences or their specific clinical applications would you like to undertake based on this initial mapping exercise?
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 2 |
Outcome
Interpret routine MR and ultrasound images and advise on the choice of scanning parameters. |