2014 – 2015
Florida Department of Education
Curriculum Framework 

Program Title:	Radiography
Career Cluster:	Health Science

AS	
CIP Number	1351090700	
Program Type	College Credit	
Standard Length	77 credit hours	
CTSO	HOSA: Future Health Professionals	
SOC Codes (all applicable) 	29-2034 Radiologic Technologists
	
Targeted Occupation List	http://www.labormarketinfo.com/wec/TargetOccupationList.htm	
Perkins Technical Skill Attainment Inventory	http://www.fldoe.org/workforce/perkins/perkins_resources.asp 	
Statewide Articulation	http://www.fldoe.org/workforce/dwdframe/artic_frame.asp 	

Purpose

This program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in the Health Science career cluster; provides technical skill proficiency, and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge of all aspects of Health Science career cluster. 

The purpose of this program is to prepare students for employment as Radiographers, Radiologic Technologists SOC Code 29-2034 (Radiologic Technologists/Technicians) or to provide supplemental training for persons previously or presently employed in these occupations.

The content includes but is not limited to introduction to radiography, medical ethics and law, medical terminology, methods of patient care, human structure and function, radiographic procedures, principles of radiographic exposure, imaging equipment, radiographic film processing, evaluation of radiographs, radiation physics, principles of radiation protection, principles of radiation biology, radiographic pathology, introduction to quality assurance, introduction to computer literacy, and clinical education.  The curriculum includes a plan for well‑structured competency based clinical education.

Additional Information relevant to this Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is provided at the end of this document.

Program Structure

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting of 77 credit hours.

Standards

After successfully completing this program, the student will be able to perform the following:

01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the health care delivery system and health occupations.
02.0	Demonstrate the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively.
03.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities.
04.0	Demonstrate an understanding of and apply wellness and disease concepts.
05.0	Recognize and practice safety and security procedures.
06.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations.
07.0	Recognize and practice infection control procedures.
08.0	Demonstrate an understanding of information technology applications in healthcare.
09.0	Demonstrate employability skills.
10.0	Demonstrate knowledge of blood borne diseases, including HIV/AIDS.
11.0	Apply basic math and science skills. 
12.0	Techniques to accurately demonstrate anatomical structures on a radiograph or another imaging receptor. Apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, positioning and radiographic
13.0	Evaluate radiographic images for appropriate positioning and image quality.
14.0	Apply the principles of radiation protection for the patient, self and others.
15.0	Anticipate and provide patient care and comfort.
16.0	Perform quality assurance procedures.
17.0	Exercise independent judgment and discretion in the technical performance of medical imaging procedures.
18.0	Demonstrate proper operation of radiographic equipment and accessories.

2014 – 2015
Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Program Title:	Radiography
CIP Number:		1351090700 
Program Length:	77 credit hours
SOC Code(s):		29-2034

The AS degree requires the inclusion of a minimum of 15 credits of general education coursework according to SACS, and it must be transferable according to Rule 6A-14.030 (2), F.A.C.  At the completion of this program, the student will be able to:	
01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the health care delivery system and health occupations–The student will be able to:	
01.01	Identify the basic components of the health care delivery system including public, private, government and non-profit.	
01.02	Identify common methods of payment for healthcare services.	
01.03	Describe the various types of healthcare providers and the range of services available including resources to victims of domestic violence. 	
01.04	Describe the composition and functions of a healthcare team. 	
01.05	Identify the general roles and responsibilities of the individual members of the healthcare team. 	
01.06	Identify the roles and responsibilities of the consumer within the healthcare delivery system. 	
01.07	Identify characteristics of effective teams. 	
01.08	Recognize methods for building positive team relationships.	
01.09	Analyze attributes and attitudes of an effective leader. 	
01.10	Recognize factors and situations that may lead to conflict.	
01.11	Demonstrate effective techniques for managing team conflict. 	
01.12	Describe factors that influence the current delivery system of healthcare.	
01.13	Explain the impact of emerging issues including technology, epidemiology, bioethics and socioeconomics on healthcare delivery systems. 	
02.0	Demonstrate the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively–The student will be able to:	
02.01	Develop basic speaking and active listening skills.	
02.02	Develop basic observational skills and related documentation strategies in written and oral form.	
02.03	Identify characteristics of successful and unsuccessful communication including communication styles and barriers. 	
02.04	Respond to verbal and non-verbal cues. 	
02.05	Compose written communication using correct spelling, grammar, a formatting and confidentiality and specific formats of letter writing.	
02.06	Use appropriate medical terminology and abbreviations. 	
02.07	Recognize the importance of courtesy and respect for patients and other healthcare workers and maintain good interpersonal relationships. 	
02.08	Recognize the importance of patient/client educations regarding healthcare. 	
02.09	Adapt communication skills to varied levels of understanding and cultural orientation including diverse age, cultural, economic, ethnic and religious groups. 	
02.10	Analyze elements of communication using a sender-receiver model.	
02.11	Distinguish between and report subjective and objective information. 	
02.12	Report relevant information in order of occurrence. 	
03.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities–The student will be able to:	
03.01	Discuss the legal framework of the healthcare occupations including scope of practice legislation.	
03.02	Explain practices that could result in malpractice, liability, negligence, abandonment, false imprisonment and fraud. 	
03.03	Demonstrate procedures for accurate documentation and record keeping. 	
03.04	Interpret healthcare facility policy and procedures. 	
03.05	Explain the “Patient’s Bill of Rights”.	
03.06	Identify standards of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).	
03.07	Describe advance directives. 	
03.08	Describe informed consent. 	
03.09	Explain the laws governing harassment, labor and employment. 	
03.10	Differentiate between legal and ethical issues in healthcare.	
03.11	Describe a code of ethics consistent with the healthcare occupation. 	
03.12	Identify and compare personal, professional, and organizational ethics. 	
03.13	Recognize the limits of authority and responsibility of health care workers including legislated scope of practice. 	
03.14	Recognize and report illegal and/or unethical practices of healthcare workers. 	
03.15	Recognize and report abuse including domestic violence and neglect. 	
03.16	Distinguish among the five schedules of controlled substances.	
04.0	Demonstrate an understanding of and apply wellness and disease concepts–The student will be able to:	
04.01	Describe strategies for prevention of diseases including health screenings and examinations. 	
04.02	Identify personal health practices and environmental factors which affect optimal function of each of the major body systems.	
04.03	Identify psychological reactions to illness including defense mechanisms. 	
04.04	Identify complementary and alternative health practices. 	
04.05	Discuss the adverse effects of the use of alcohol, tobacco, and both legal and illegal drugs on the human body and apply safety practices related to these and other high risk behaviors. 	
04.06	Explain the basic concepts of positive self image, wellness and stress. 	
04.07	Develop a wellness and stress control plan that can be used in personal and professional life. 	
04.08	Explore and utilize the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate food guide (www.choosemyplate.gov).	
04.09	Recognize the steps in the grief process. 	
05.0	Recognize and practice safety and security procedures–The student will be able to:	
05.01	Recognize safe and unsafe working conditions and report safety hazards. 	
05.02	Demonstrate the safe use of medical equipment.	
05.03	Explain and apply the theory of root- cause analysis.  	
05.04	Identify and describe methods in medical error reduction and prevention in the various healthcare settings. 	
05.05	Identify and practice security procedures for medical supplies and equipment. 	
05.06	Demonstrate personal safety procedures based on Occupations Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regulations (including standard precautions). 	
05.07	Recognize Materials Data Safety Sheets (MSDS) and comply with safety signs, symbols and labels. 	
05.08	Demonstrate proper body mechanics and ergonomics. 	
05.09	Demonstrate the procedure for properly identifying patients. 	
05.10	Demonstrate procedures for the safe transport and transfer of patients. 	
05.11	Describe fire, safety, disaster and evacuations procedures. 	
05.12	Discuss The Joint Commission patient safety goals (www.jointcommission.org). 	
06.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations–The student will be able to:	
06.01	Monitor and record vital signs.	
06.02	Describe legal parameters relating to the administration of emergency care. 	
06.03	Obtain and maintain training or certification on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED), foreign body airway obstruction (FBAO) and first aid. 	
06.04	Recognize adverse drug related emergencies and take appropriate first aid action. 	
07.0	Recognize and practice infection control procedures–The student will be able to:	
07.01	Define principles of infection control including standard and transmission based precautions.	
07.02	Demonstrate knowledge of medical asepsis and practice procedures such as hand-washing and isolation. 	
07.03	Demonstrate knowledge of surgical asepsis. 	
07.04	Describe how to dispose correctly of biohazardous materials according to appropriate government guidelines such as OSHA. 	
08.0	Demonstrate an understanding of information technology applications in healthcare–The student will be able to:	
08.01	Describe technology applications in healthcare. 	
08.02	Define terms and demonstrate basic computer skills. 	
08.03	Recognize technology applications in healthcare. 	
08.04	Interpret information from electronic medical documents. 	
08.05	Identify methods of communication to access and distribute data such as fax, e-mail and internet. 	
09.0	Demonstrate employability skills–The student will be able to:	
09.01	Identify personal traits or attitudes desirable in a member of the healthcare team. 	
09.02	Exemplify basic professional standards of healthcare workers as they apply to hygiene, dress, language, confidentiality and behavior (i.e. telephone etiquette, courtesy and self-introductions). 	
09.03	Identify documents that may be required when applying for a job. 	
09.04	Write an appropriate resume. 	
09.05	Conduct a job search. 	
09.06	Complete a job application form correctly.	
09.07	Examine levels of education, credentialing requirements including licensure and certification, employment opportunities, workplace environments and career growth potential. 	
09.08	Recognize levels of education, credentialing requirements, employment opportunities, workplace environments and career growth potential. 	
09.09	Identify acceptable work habits. 	
09.10	Recognize appropriate affective/professional behavior. 	
09.11	Compare careers within the health science career pathways (diagnostic services, therapeutic services, health informatics, support services or biotechnology research and development). 	
10.0	Demonstrate knowledge of blood borne diseases, including HIV/AIDS–The student will be able to:	
10.01	Recognize emerging diseases and disorders.	
10.02	Distinguish between fact and fallacy about the transmission and treatment of diseases caused by blood borne pathogens including Hepatitis B.	
10.03	Identify community resources and services available to the individuals with diseases caused by blood borne pathogens.	
10.04	Identify "at risk" behaviors which promote the spread of diseases caused by blood borne pathogens and the public education necessary to combat the spread of these diseases.	
10.05	Apply infection control techniques designed to prevent the spread of diseases caused by blood borne pathogens to the care of all patients following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines.	
10.06	Demonstrate knowledge of the legal aspects of HIV/AIDS, including testing.	
11.0	Apply basic math and science skills–The student will be able to:	
11.01	Draw, read, and report on graphs, charts and tables.	
11.02	Measure time, temperature, distance, capacity, and mass/weight.	
11.03	Make, use and convert using both traditional and metric units. 	
11.04	Make estimations and approximations and judge the reasonableness of the result.	
11.05	Convert from regular to 24 hour time.	
11.06	Demonstrate ability to evaluate and draw conclusions.	
11.07	Organize and communicate the results obtained by observation and experimentation.	
11.08	Ask appropriate scientific questions and recognize what is involved in experimental approaches to the solution of such questions.	
11.09	Calculate ratios.	
Radiography:  (12-18)	
12.0	Apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, positioning and radiographic techniques to accurately demonstrate anatomical structures on a radiograph or other imaging receptor–The student will be able to:	
12.01	Evaluate requisition for proper exam and/or patient.	
12.02	Demonstrate knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, positioning and radiographic techniques to accurately demonstrate anatomical structures on a radiograph or other imaging receptor.	
12.03	Position patient, utilizing body landmarks, to achieve the best demonstration of the affected body part by adjusting table, radiographic and/or fluoroscopic equipment, and image receptor using knowledge of anatomy, standard radiographic positions and departmental protocol.	
12.04	To insure proper patient positioning during film exposure, use immobilization devices, when indicated, to prevent patient movement.	
12.05	Give patient appropriate breathing instructions (e.g., inspiration, expiration) prior to making exposure.	
12.06	When indicated, take scout radiograph(s) on trauma patients to determine the extent and nature of injury, and whether injury will permit standard examination procedures.	
12.07	Remove all radiopaque materials (e.g., jewelry, hairpins, contrast materials) from patient and/or table that could interfere with the quality of the radiograph.	
13.0	Evaluate radiographic images for appropriate positioning and image quality–The student will be able to:	
13.01	Identify qualities that characterize a diagnostic radiograph.	
13.02	Identify human structural landmarks and pathological conditions.	
13.03	Identify incorrect image density, contrast, over/under exposures, artifacts, etc.	
13.04	Recognize the effect of various patient conditions, equipment, accessories, and contrast media on radiographic quality.	
13.05	Recognize legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities to patients, physicians, and co‑workers.	
13.06	Evaluate radiographic images for appropriate positioning and image quality.	
13.07	If radiograph is not suitable, review procedural steps taken and modify as necessary.	
14.0	Apply the principles of radiation protection for the patient, self and others–The student will be able to:	
14.01	Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of radiation protection for the patient, self and others.	
14.02	Question female patients of child‑bearing age about menstrual cycle and/or possible pregnancy to alert radiologist and/or referring physician.	
14.03	When indicated place a gonadal shield over male and female reproductive organs prior to taking radiograph.	
14.04	Stand behind lead barrier or wear a lead apron while activating radiographic equipment.	
14.05	Wear a monitoring device in the correct designated location while on duty to obtain a record of radiation exposure over a given period of time while operating radiographic equipment.	
14.06	Place protective shield over radiosensitive organs (other than gonads) in or near the primary beam prior to exposure (i.e.: thyroid, eyes, etc.).	
14.07	Remove all unnecessary persons from area prior to taking radiograph.	
14.08	Restrict the beam to the area to be radiographed.	
14.09	Explain the biological effects of ionizing radiation.	
15.0	Anticipate and provide patient care and comfort–The student will be able to:	
15.01	Demonstrate knowledge required to anticipate and provide patient care and comfort.	
15.02	Explain procedures to patient before beginning procedure.	
15.03	Determine patients' identity using information on request form and confirm by checking wristband and/or by questioning patient.	
15.04	Observe and/or question patient to determine if alternate radiographic projections are needed as well as any modifications that might be useful in the diagnosis.	
15.05	Assist patient onto or off the table, stool or bed to avoid patient and personal injury using proper body mechanics and/or mechanical transfer devices.	
15.06	Instruct patient about diet restrictions and/or self‑administered preparatory medication or contrast agent relative to an examination.	
15.07	Clean, wash, disinfect and/or sterilize facilities and equipment (e.g., cassettes, tabletops) and dispose of contaminated items prior to each patient to be radiographed.	
15.08	Observe appropriate protective techniques when radiographing a patient in isolation to provide for effective infection control.	
15.09	Use sterile and/or aseptic technique as required to help prevent infection.	
15.10	Apply infection control techniques according to Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines.	
15.11	Prior to injecting an iodinated contrast medium, elicit such information about the patient which might indicate a risk of a reaction using patient's chart, radiograph file jacket and/or by questioning patient.	
15.12	Assist physician in the intravenous injection of contrast medium using appropriate aseptic technique.	
15.13	After injection of iodinated contrast medium, observe patient to detect adverse reactions to the medium using knowledge of common reactions.	
15.14	Introduce contrast medium (excluding intravenous injections) into patient according to procedure indicated by physician.	
15.15	Recognize and report symptoms of abuse and neglect.	
16.0	Perform quality assurance procedures–The student will be able to:	
16.01	Demonstrate the knowledge required to perform basic quality assurance procedures.	
16.02	Perform safety checks of radiographic equipment including table, tube and accessories.	
16.03	Report malfunction in radiographic unit.	
16.04	Clean screens and cassettes on a regular basis to remove dirt, paper or other artifacts.	
16.05	Recognize and report malfunctions in the automatic processor.	
16.06	Implement appropriate JCAHO patient safety goals.	
17.0	Exercise independent judgment and discretion in the technical performance of medical imaging procedures–The student will be able to:	
17.01	Demonstrate the knowledge to exercise independent judgment and discretion in the technical performance of medical imaging procedures.	
17.02	Select film, screen and/or grid combination appropriate for the part to be radiographed.	
17.03	Restrict the beam to limit exposure to the area of interest to improve image quality.	
17.04	Set appropriate kVp, mA and time for the radiographic unit to achieve optimal image quality and safe operating conditions.	
17.05	Set appropriate kVp, mA, and time for the fluoroscopic and accessory imaging devices to achieve optimal image quality and safe operating conditions.	
18.0	Demonstrate proper operation of radiographic equipment and accessories–The student will be able to:	
18.01	Demonstrate the knowledge to properly operate radiographic equipment and accessories.	
18.02	Warm-up x-ray tube to achieve proper operating conditions by following a prescribed sequence of steps.	
18.03	Set appropriate kVp, mA and time (or if photo-timed, select appropriate kVp, mA, back-up time and photosensor) for the radiographic unit to achieve optimum image quality and safe operating conditions. 	
18.04	Utilize measuring calipers, technique charts and tube rating charts for selection of exposure factors.	
18.05	Set appropriate kVp, mA, and time for the fluoroscopic and accessory imaging devices to achieve optimal image quality and safe operating conditions.	
18.06	Store film in a manner which will reduce the possibility of accidentally exposing or re-exposing film.	
18.07	Process film in a correct manner.	
18.08	Reload cassettes by selecting film of proper size/type and place in designated area.	

Additional Information

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory activities are an integral part of this program.  These activities include instruction in the use of safety procedures, tools, equipment, materials, and processes related to these occupations.  Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students. 

Special Notes

This program meets the Department of Health HIV/AIDS Domestic Violence and Prevention of Medical Errors education requirements.  Upon completion of this program, the instructor will provide a certificate to the student verifying that these requirements have been met.

If students in this program are seeking a licensure, certificate or registration through the Department of Health, please refer to 456.0635 F.S. for more information on disqualification for a license, certificate, or registration through the Department of Health. 

The program must be accredited. by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), 20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 900, Chicago, Illinois 60606-2901, (312) 704-5300, or by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The program must also be approved by the Department of Health, Bureau of Radiation Control so that the graduate is eligible for licensure in Florida as a Certified Radiologic Technologist.  As specified in Chapter 468 Part IV F.S. and Chapter 64E-3 F.A.C.

Radiographers provide patient services using imaging modalities, as directed by physicians qualified to order and/or perform radiologic procedures.  Radiographers usually provide patient care essential to radiologic procedures, including exercising judgment when performing medical imaging procedures.  When providing patient services, the radiographer adheres to the principles of radiation protection for the patient, self, and others.

Radiographers accurately demonstrate anatomical structures on various imaging receptors by knowledge of anatomy, positioning, radiographic technique, and radiation protection.  Radiographers must also be able to recognize emergency patient conditions and initiate lifesaving first aid.  Additional duties may include performing quality assurance, processing film, and keeping patient records.  Radiographers may be required to perform some of these duties at the patient's bedside or in the operating room.

The policies and process by which students receive clinical education shall be published and made known to all concerned in order to avoid practices in which students are substituted for paid staff.  Students shall not take the responsibility or the place of qualified staff.  After demonstrating competency, students may be permitted to perform procedures with indirect supervision.  Unsatisfactory radiographs shall be repeated only in the presence of a qualified radiographer.

Program completers will be eligible to make an application to take the National Registry examination.  For further information contact:

American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
1255 Northland Drive
St. Paul, MN 55120-1155
(612) 687-0048

Students are encouraged to become members of their appropriate professional organizations such as the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), Florida Society of Radiologic Technologists (FSRT) and its' local affiliate.

Outcomes 01-11 are referred to as the Health Careers Core and do not have to be completed if the student has previously completed the Core in another health science program.  The Core should be taken first or concurrently with the first course in the program.  Following the successful completion of the core, the National Health Care Foundation Skill Standards Assessment with instructor approval and the completion of a portfolio.

Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)

HOSA: Future Health Professionals is the appropriate career and technical student organization for providing leadership training and reinforcing specific career and technical skills.  Career and Technical Student Organizations provide activities for students as an integral part of the instruction offered.  The activities of such organizations are defined as part of the curriculum in accordance with Rule 6A-6.065, F.A.C.

Accommodations

Federal and state legislation requires the provision of accommodations for students with disabilities as identified on the secondary student’s Individual Educational Plan (IEP) or 504 plan or postsecondary student’s accommodations’ plan to meet individual needs and ensure equal access.  Postsecondary students with disabilities must self-identify, present documentation, request accommodations if needed, and develop a plan with their counselor and/or instructors.  Accommodations received in postsecondary education may differ from those received in secondary education.  Accommodations change the way the student is instructed.  Students with disabilities may need accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials, assignments and assessments, time demands and schedules, learning environment, assistive technology and special communication systems.  Documentation of the accommodations requested and provided should be maintained in a confidential file.

Articulation

To be transferable statewide between institutions, this program must have been reviewed, and a “transfer value” assigned the curriculum content by the appropriate Statewide Course Numbering System discipline committee.  This does not preclude institutions from developing specific articulation agreements with each other. 

For details on articulation agreements which correlate to programs and industry certifications refer to http://www.fldoe.org/workforce/dwdframe/artic_frame.asp .

Program Length

The AS degree requires the inclusion of a minimum of 15 credits of general education coursework according to SACS, and it must be transferable according to Rule 6A-14.030 (2), F.A.C.  The standard length of this program is 77credit hours according to Rule 6A-14.030, F.A.C.