Professional/Short course Fundamental Applications of Computed Tomography

Structure

Content

The syllabus would typically include an extensive online lecture series that covers essential aspects of CT practice, presented by experts in the field. Keynote lectures provide both theoretical insights and practical knowledge applicable to a range of clinical scenarios. The syllabus is designed to develop a comprehensive understanding of computed tomography, with topics including:

An introduction to the use of CT in various specialised fields, such as oncology, trauma, and musculoskeletal imaging

• Understanding how CT supports diagnosis and treatment planning in specific patient pathways.
• Patient care and safety in CT,

Guidance on patient preparation, care, and management within CT procedures

• Considerations for reducing radiation exposure, particularly for vulnerable patient groups such as paediatric and inpatient populations.
• Clinical protocols and emergency imaging.

Examination of protocols that optimise CT's use in emergency and critical care settings

• Emphasis on adapting CT techniques to meet the specific demands of emergency imaging, ensuring rapid and accurate results.

CT in Treatment Planning

• Exploration of the integration of CT in planning and delivering treatments, including radiotherapy.

Understanding the role of CT in interventional procedures and how it supports minimally invasive approaches.

Quality assurance and error management

• Examination of quality assurance measures essential for maintaining high standards in CT imaging.
• Identifying common pitfalls in CT practice and strategies for anticipating and mitigating errors.

Education and professional development in CT

• Discussion on the importance of continuous professional development in CT.
• Focus on the role of clinical educators in training and supporting the CT workforce, as well as best practices for teaching and knowledge transfer.

Advanced techniques in CT imaging

• Overview of emerging and specialised CT techniques, such as CT Colonography and Cardiac CT.
• Insight into new technologies and methods that are enhancing the capabilities of CT imaging.

Learning and Teaching

Scheduled learningTeaching and learning methods will include, but not be limited to, asynchronous delivery of lecture material through narrated presentations, notes and other guided reading, VLE discussion board fora with specific objectives, workplace tasks, and other study tasks deemed appropriate to the development of student knowledge. Formative feedback on allocated study tasks will be provided.

Independent learningIncludes hours engaged with essential reading, case study preparation, assignment preparation and completion etc. These sessions constitute an average time per level as indicated in the table below.

Placement learning  Students on this module will be working in the field of Computed Tomography.  There will be competency based tasks to complete locally as per the clinical portfolio component. This will be assessed with on-site Mentors.

Study time

Contact hours will be achieved via blended learning education.

• Some material will be videoed lectures made available on Black-Board for all learners. Learners will have the option to attend these recordings but this will not be compulsory.
• Subject specific vodcasts with associated self-directed leaning tasks.
• Work-based appraisal completion.

Contact with the module leader for discussion of module-related issues will be facilitated by email, telephone conversations and discussion boards.

Assessment

Assessment comprises the production of a clinical portfolio of evidence and a 2,500 word written assignment.

You'll be given the opportunity for formative feedback, for example, through the review of a proportion of your written submission or a plan.