Training activity information
Details
Carry out output and dose calibration of a diagnostic scanner and for at least one of the following therapeutic devices:
- Physiotherapy
- Lithotripsy
- HiFU
- Lipus
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
- Appropriate test equipment
- Local SOPs
- Standards and guidance
- Safety of patients and users
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
- Explore the specific protocols and equipment used for output and dose calibration in your department for both diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound. Understand the relevant safety standards and guidelines for ultrasound output and dosage.
- Familiarise yourself with the operation of any measurement equipment required for calibration.
- Consider the specific practical skills you hope to gain in performing these calibration procedures.
- Think about what you already know about ultrasound physics and the factors affecting output and dose. How does calibration ensure accuracy and safety?
- Anticipate learning about potential issues that can arise during calibration and how to troubleshoot them.
- Discuss the specific equipment and procedures you will be using with your training officer or a senior colleague. Review the relevant calibration manuals and safety guidelines.
- Consider potential challenges, such as equipment limitations or unexpected readings, and how you might address these.
- Identify how you feel about performing these technical and safety-critical procedures. Do you feel adequately trained in the underlying principles?
In action
- What specific measurement tools and techniques are you currently using to calibrate the output and dose?
- How are you setting up the diagnostic or therapeutic device for calibration?
- What data are you collecting during the calibration process?
- How are you comparing the measured values to the expected or required values?
- What safety precautions are you taking as you perform these calibrations?
- Are you obtaining consistent and reliable measurements?
- What difficulties are you encountering with the calibration process for either the diagnostic scanner or the therapeutic device?
- What are you learning about the output characteristics of these devices as you calibrate them?
- How do the calibration procedures differ between the diagnostic and therapeutic devices?
- If your measurements are outside of acceptable limits, what adjustments are you considering?
- Do you need to refer to equipment manuals or seek expert advice at this point?
- Are you double-checking your procedures and calculations to ensure accuracy?
On action
- What were the key differences in the calibration procedures and measurement techniques for the diagnostic scanner compared to the therapeutic device you worked with?
-
- What were the typical output characteristics you observed for each type of equipment?
- Were there any challenges encountered in obtaining accurate measurements or adjusting the equipment settings?
- What new knowledge or skills did you gain in performing output and dose calibration for diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound devices?
- Did you develop a better understanding of the safety standards and regulatory requirements related to ultrasound equipment output?
- What did you learn about the importance of accurate calibration for both diagnostic image quality and therapeutic efficacy?
- How will this experience inform your approach to future calibration tasks?
- What areas for continued development have you identified in your knowledge of ultrasound physics and calibration procedures?
- What specific actions will you take to further develop your skills in this area?
- How can you apply the learning from this activity to your routine practice?
Beyond action
- Have you had subsequent experiences with output and dose calibration of ultrasound equipment, and have you become more familiar with the relevant standards and regulations?
- Revisiting your reflections, has your understanding of the physics principles underlying ultrasound output and calibration improved? Have you observed or participated in calibration procedures for other therapeutic modalities, and how did your ultrasound experience compare?
- Has your understanding of the importance of accurate calibration influenced your awareness of safety considerations when using diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound?
- Have you been more mindful of potential factors that could affect ultrasound output or dose as a result of this training activity? How has this activity contributed to your broader understanding of the technical aspects of delivering safe and effective ultrasound treatments?
- How will your foundational knowledge of calibration and the precision developed during this activity prepare you for technical roles involving new therapeutic ultrasound applications?
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 1 |
Outcome
Use ultrasound scanners, applying basic and advanced modality controls. |
| # 3 |
Outcome
Assess the performance and safety of ultrasound scanners used in common clinical applications, including advanced imaging techniques. |