This course is designed to teach the important aspects of computed tomography (CT) and the role of a CT technologist for radiologic technologists who assist in remote CT Scanning. The course emphasizes patient safety and care, image quality, regulatory compliance, and team collaboration.

Key topics covered in the course include:

• CT equipment: Understanding the components of the CT scanner, such as the gantry, aperture, control panel, laser alignment markers, isocenter, and patient couch. This includes the tilting range of the gantry, the typical size of the gantry aperture, and the scannable range of the patient table. The course also covers the table's 3D coordinate system (X, Y, and Z axes).
• Contrast administration: Understanding contrast agents, their properties, and different methods of administration (intravenous, oral, rectal, intravesical, intrathecal, intraarticular). The course includes classifications of contrast agents based on osmolality, viscosity, and ionicity. It also covers weight-based dosing for adults and pediatrics, volume and concentration adjustments, and injection rates. Additionally, the course covers contraindications for contrast administration, including iodine allergy, kidney problems, recent contrast dose, and pregnancy.
• Contrast reactions: Knowing how to identify and address contrast reactions, including chemotoxic and idiosyncratic reactions. The course details mild, moderate, and severe reactions, their symptoms, and appropriate responses, such as stopping the injection, administering oxygen, and, in severe cases, initiating life support. It also covers the importance of monitoring vital signs, documenting symptoms, and reporting incidents.
• Patient preparation and communication: Preparing patients for CT scans and communicating clear instructions, including information about appropriate clothing, required lab values, premedications, pre-test hydration, NPO status, medication restrictions, and bowel prep. The course covers how to explain the scan process to patients, including the expected duration and potential effects of contrast. It also emphasizes the importance of gowning, shielding, and obtaining informed consent.
• IV access: Understanding how to start an IV, including proper technique, use of standard precautions, and assembly of necessary supplies. The course covers how to identify and assess a suitable vein, prepare the site, insert the needle, advance the catheter, remove the needle, and secure the site. It also emphasizes checking for blood return and flushing with saline.
• CT protocols: Understanding different CT protocols, including neuro, thoracic, and abdominal protocols. The course includes information on patient positioning, centering, breath-hold instructions, and contrast administration for each protocol. It also covers vascular access methods, including peripheral IVs, power PICCs, and power ports.
• Quality assurance (QA) testing: Understanding the importance of QA testing and the technologist's role in ensuring high-quality exams. The course describes QA tests, including daily, weekly, monthly, and annual checks for system functionality. It covers key performance metrics such as image noise, uniformity, CT number accuracy, slice thickness, and alignment and positioning. It also discusses the use of quality control phantoms and the importance of documenting and maintaining QA records.

Overall, the course aims to prepare individuals for a role in CT by providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the equipment, procedures, protocols, and safety considerations necessary for high-quality patient care.

Find the workbook to this course under Downloads in your account!

*We are located in Houston, Texas, and all webinars are hosted in Central Time. You will receive the webinar link via email from Zoom one day before your class, as well as one hour before it begins.