RADTX 375 - Principles of Simulation

2 CR

Presents basic principles of radiation therapy simulation. Students will apply concepts in clinics in the following quarter. Topics include legal aspects, rationale for simulation and documentation. Equipment components, operation, and imaging techniques are analyzed. Patient measurements, positioning and immobilization devices are studied.

Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into Radiation Therapy, BAS

Course Outcomes

Discuss patient positioning strategies including straightening and leveling techniques. Determine if patient is a candidate for gating or motion management during treatment delivery.
Explain contrast methods and risks, various types of fiducial markers, purpose of fluoroscopy for brachytherapy procedures. Compare and contrast traditional fluoroscopic simulation with CT simulation.
Determine isocenter placement, patient separation and SSD’s using superficial anatomy and landmarks common in radiation therapy.
Correctly identify critical anatomical structures on X-ray & CT images, discuss factors involved in determination of the CT scan volume.
Identify the steps and sequence of performing a simulation, localization and therapeutic radiation therapy procedures in accordance with national patient safety standards
Demonstrate an understanding of effective writen, oral and nonverbal communication with patients and other members of the health care team.
Explain accurate documentation of all aspects of patient care and management in the health record, including marking patient for reproducibility.

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