Study-unit Aims
This study-unit seeks to address various aims.
First, within the field of radiography and the increased role for MRI, this study-unit aims to provide radiographers and upcoming graduates with education and training in magnetic resonance safety.
Secondly, this study-unit has been designed as part of an ERASMUS+ project of establishing a harmonized MRI safety education and training curricula for radiographers working in MRI in Europe, particularly in view of the growing need for radiographers to take on roles in MR Safety.
Thirdly, this study-unit is designed to meet the needs and preferences of today's diverse learner, through various teaching and learning methods that can be flexibly paced as needed.
Finally, this study-unit provides a unique opportunity for radiography students and qualified professionals interested in MRI safety to meet and learn with and from similar-minded students and professionals from from other countries, through virtual transnational collaborations.
Learning Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding
By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to:
- Describe the MRI examination process as a whole, including patient preparation, MRI scanning and patient aftercare;
- Discuss the importance of patient preparation for a successful MRI examination;
- Explain metal screening processes for patients, volunteers, accompanying people and staff;
- Describe the safe use and administration of contrast media;
- Explain MRI equipment specifications such as static magnetic field strength, spatial gradient field map, fringe field maps, gradient field specifications (amplitude, rise time, slew rate) and RF fields (MHz);
- Describe a broad range of MR equipment, its optimal use, preparation and maintenance;
- Explain the safe scanning consenting practices for patients and healthy volunteers enrolled in research projects.
Learning Outcomes: Skills
By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to:
- Explain the MRI examination process to all patients and healthy volunteers and their relatives/ accompanying carers and other non-MR healthcare professionals, as required;
- Apply safe metal screening practices;
- Ensure compliance to informed consent procedures;
- Identify adverse events quickly and act accordingly;
- Apply metal screening and safe scanning processes to protect patients, volunteers, accompanying people and staff. Ensure that patients with active medical devices are scanned according to SOPs;
- Evaluate key equipment specifications to ensure that all patients may be scanned safely in MRI;
- Perform regular quality assurance/ quality control processes of the MRI scanner to ensure its smooth functionality during the scan.
