Diploma in Diagnostic Radiography

A person achieving this qualification will be competent to apply scientific, practical and clinical knowledge, skills and insight to practice independently in the Health Care Team up to Level 3 care.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Access may be granted, through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), to learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements.

Entry Requirements

• A qualification at Level 5 in Radiography.
• National Senior Certificate, Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies.
• Senior Certificate, Level 4 with Matriculation exemption.
• National Certificate Vocation, Level 4 with a relevant specialisation, granting access to Bachelor's Degree Study Diploma studies.

1. Apply scientific knowledge and skills to perform and adapt diagnostic techniques, applicable to the clinical presentation, for the optimum benefit of the patient.

Specified Outcomes

1.1 Apply radiographic techniques to produce diagnostic images.

1.2 Apply and integrate knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology in the radiographic procedures.

1.3 Competently utilise equipment in the production of optimal quality images for diagnosis.

1.4 Control production and processing of image, including storage and retrieval of digital images.

1.5 Operate imaging and radiographic equipment safely.

1. Assess radiographic quality and pattern recognition.

2.1. Assess the request form and the patient.

2.2. Exercise independent judgement and discretion in verifying the technical quality of radiographic procedures.

2.3. Apply pattern recognition skills to radiographic images.

1. Care for the patient responsibly and effectively to ensure the welfare and safety of the patient is maintained).

3.1 Apply optimal patient care before, during and after examinations.

3.2 Practice professional ethics.

1. Apply appropriate health and safety regulations, ethical principles, guidelines and codes of practice in the performance of radiography to ensure personal and public safety.

4.1 Perform radiographic procedures safely.

4.2 Apply all relevant regulations to ensure the patient's, personnel, public and self, are protected from unnecessary radiation during radiographic examinations).

4.3 Practice and maintain ethical professional standards for the provision of optimal quality radiographic service and patient management.

1. Utilise theoretical knowledge of management practice to manage human, technological and other resources to ensure optimal and cost effective quality radiographic services:

5.1 Manage a radiographic department/unit effectively.

5.2 Utilise theoretical knowledge to operate effectively within the health care team to promote personal development and optimal use of human resources.

5.3 Use and maintain radiographic equipment and accessories within the available budget to provide a cost effective radiographic service.

5.4 Develop and maintain quality assurance programmes to optimise the radiographic services.

1. Access, utilise and communicate information applicable to the radiographic services.

6.1 Manage and utilise information technology).

1. Routine and specialised radiographic procedures are performed with and without contrast medium.

• Correct technique is selected, and patient is correctly positioned.
• Knowledge and understanding of CT, MRI and vascular are demonstrated.
• Appropriate assistance is rendered during CT, MRI and vascular studies.
• Radiation protection and safety measures are applied.

1.2. Knowledge of anatomy, anatomical relationships and cross sectional anatomy is demonstrated and applied

• Knowledge of physiology is demonstrated and applied.
• Knowledge of pathology is demonstrated and applied.

1.3. Imaging systems are selected and appropriately utilised

• Knowledge and understanding of equipment and accessory equipment of imaging systems used are demonstrated.

1.4. The correct exposures factors are used

• Image manipulation is appropriately applied.
• Image recording media selected are appropriate to the technique and used correctly.
• Images are evaluated for diagnostic value.
• ALARA - principles are adhered to.
• Images of optimal quality are produced.
• Digital images are effectively stored and retrieved.

1.5. Equipment is operated in a safe manner

• Appropriate radiation safety is effectively applied.

2.1 Request form is read and appropriately assessed

• The patient is clinically assessed before each examination commences.

2.2. Radiographic images are evaluated for quality and positioning and if necessary, corrective measures are applied

• Need for possible additional views is recognised.
• The radiograph demonstrates the required patient information to meet medico-legal requirements.

2.3. Normal and abnormal radiographic appearances are recognised and appropriate action is taken.

• Information relevant to radiological diagnosis and/or patient management is provided.
• Knowledge and understanding of pathophysiology is demonstrated.

3.1. Patient care is optimally performed

• Knowledge and understanding of human behaviour in a culturally diverse environment is demonstrated and applied.
• Appropriate responses to patient's physical and emotional needs are demonstrated within the ethical code of practice.
• Prepare patient's for specialised contrast examinations.
• The nature and requirements of the examinations are clearly communicated to the patient.
• Expertise in limiting radiation exposure to patient, self and others, is demonstrated.
• The psychological diversity of the patient is acknowledged.
• The clinical condition of the patient is considered.

3.2. The patient's rights to quality care are protected

• Practise professional ethics.
• Discretion and judgement are exercised.
• Responsibility for professional decisions is assumed.
• Professional behaviour is demonstrated at all times and the profession is promoted.
• The patient's rights, in accordance with the legislature of rights, are upheld.
• Unethical and illegal professional activities are reported to the appropriate authorities.
• The process of informed consent is understood and applied.

4.1. Knowledge and understanding of relevant legislature and its relationship to the radiographic context, is demonstrated and applied:

• Performance is guided and controlled according to relevant safety regulations.
• A good work ethos is maintained.

4.2. Department radiation protection protocols are developed.

• Knowledge and understanding of the physical and biological effects of radiation are demonstrated and applied.
• Equipment is used in keeping with radiation protection and quality control principles.

4.3. Ethical and legal requirements are adhered to

5.1. Effective decisions regarding the patient are made

• Examinations are organised effectively.
• Departmental administration is performed optimally.
• Communication and co-operation between patient's and stakeholders is effectively maintained.
• All resources are managed cost-effectively.
• An appropriate budget is drawn up and explained.

5.2. Time management is optimally implemented

• Conflict between role players is positively resolved.
• Human resources are effectively managed within the appropriate legislation.
• Human resources are developed.
• Good communication with all role-players is maintained.
• Supervision and instruction of students are undertaken.
• Continuing professional development requirement is understood.
• The profession of radiography is promoted.

5.3. Mechanisms for stock control are applied

• Resources are maintained cost-effectively.
• Working environment is kept neat and clean at all times.
• Patient records and department statistics are accurately kept and maintained.
• Equipment and consumables are responsibly cared for and maintained.
• Financial costs are effectively managed and controlled.
• Awareness of entrepreneurial opportunities is demonstrated.
• A strategic plan is prepared for the department.

5.4. Quality assurance is maintained

• The elements required for quality control are identified.
• Equipment and procedures are continuously monitored.
• Efficient and cost-effective quality assurance programs are implemented.
• Client and patient satisfaction is assured.

6.1. Database and spreadsheet software used

• Relevant information is selected from appropriate sources.
• Data is gathered, compiled, interpreted and presented.
• Information is scientifically presented.
• Information technology is effectively used.
• Communicate effectively using information technology.

Integrated Assessment

• Continuous evaluation of theoretical, practical and clinical aspects.
• Tests.
• Assignments/Projects/Practicals.
• Presentations.
• Case studies.

� Clinical assessments.