Radiation Lab Simulator
George David, MS, FAAPM, FACR
Associate Professor, Augusta University
Radiation Lab Simulations for Radiology Residents and Radiographer Students
Physics instruction for radiology residents and radiography students includes knowledge of the equipment used to obtain images. Part of that instruction is an explanation of radiographic technique parameters such as kilovoltage, milliamperage, exposure time, and source to detector distance. While students are taught the relationship of each parameter to beam output, understanding can be enhanced by live demonstrations or, better yet, labs where beam measurements are taken on actual imaging equipment.
Unfortunately it is not always possible to conduct such labs. Labs require coordinating the schedules of equipment, instructor, and students. Beam measurements require a suitable dosimeter as well as an instructor who knows how to operate it. Although not be a problem for programs with access to a medical physicist, this can be an obstacle for some radiology residencies and radiography schools.
The links below are a series of simulation labs where students can make simulated measurements without access to imaging equipment, dosimeters, or an instructor. The goal is to enhance understanding of relationships of technique to the x-ray beam for students who do not have convenient access to either imaging equipment, radiation monitoring equipment, or a live instructor.