RADON 115 - Principles of Simulation

2 CR

Presents basic principles of radiation therapy simulation. Students will apply concepts in clinic the following quarter. Topics include rationale for simulation, legal aspects, equipment components and operation, positioning techniques, imaging techniques and analysis, measurement and documentation. Prerequisite: Acceptance into Program.

Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into Program.

Course Outcomes

Describe 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, determine accurate selection of CT scan volume.
Prepare and perform simulation, localization and therapeutic radiation therapy procedures in accordance with national patient safety standards and identify the legal aspects of the simulation process.
Demonstrate equipment operation and programmable lasers. Construct and prepare immobilization, positioning and beam modification devices.
Demonstrate effective written, oral and nonverbal communication with patients and other members of the health care team. Demonstrate accurate documentation of all aspects of patient care and management in the health record, including marking patient for reproducibility.

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