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Questions and Answers
What is a key requirement of the quality assurance program according to IRR 17 Reg 33 (3)?
What is a key requirement of the quality assurance program according to IRR 17 Reg 33 (3)?
When is it necessary to conduct quality assurance according to the content?
When is it necessary to conduct quality assurance according to the content?
Why is quality assurance deemed necessary?
Why is quality assurance deemed necessary?
According to IRMER 17 Reg 15, what responsibility does an employer have regarding equipment?
According to IRMER 17 Reg 15, what responsibility does an employer have regarding equipment?
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What is the broader implication of quality assurance in clinical settings?
What is the broader implication of quality assurance in clinical settings?
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What does the source to detector distance directly influence?
What does the source to detector distance directly influence?
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What is the acceptable remedial level for the source to detector distance measurement?
What is the acceptable remedial level for the source to detector distance measurement?
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Which test measures the consistency of output for a series of exposures at the same settings?
Which test measures the consistency of output for a series of exposures at the same settings?
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What role does x-ray tube output play in imaging?
What role does x-ray tube output play in imaging?
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How should a dose detector be positioned for accurate measurement?
How should a dose detector be positioned for accurate measurement?
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What is the main focus of the seminar scheduled for December 2024?
What is the main focus of the seminar scheduled for December 2024?
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Which month features On-Campus Simulations according to the module timeline?
Which month features On-Campus Simulations according to the module timeline?
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Which of the following is NOT a part of the module learning objectives?
Which of the following is NOT a part of the module learning objectives?
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What does the acronym QA stand for in the context of the module?
What does the acronym QA stand for in the context of the module?
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What type of testing is emphasized in the learning objectives of the module?
What type of testing is emphasized in the learning objectives of the module?
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In which month does the module begin according to the timeline?
In which month does the module begin according to the timeline?
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What are students expected to become familiar with through the module?
What are students expected to become familiar with through the module?
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What topic is specifically mentioned as part of the module learning objectives regarding performance?
What topic is specifically mentioned as part of the module learning objectives regarding performance?
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What is the required accuracy for the remedial level of exposure time if it exceeds 100 ms?
What is the required accuracy for the remedial level of exposure time if it exceeds 100 ms?
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What is the suspension level for tube potential if the intended value is greater than 10 kV?
What is the suspension level for tube potential if the intended value is greater than 10 kV?
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What should be compared to determine the suspension level for normalized dose?
What should be compared to determine the suspension level for normalized dose?
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Which of the following materials is commonly used to measure the half value layer of an X-ray beam?
Which of the following materials is commonly used to measure the half value layer of an X-ray beam?
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For the X-ray tube output testing, what is the maximum allowable deviation for the average value from the baseline for remedial levels?
For the X-ray tube output testing, what is the maximum allowable deviation for the average value from the baseline for remedial levels?
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What type of trend should be observed when measuring dose with varying kV settings compared to the baseline?
What type of trend should be observed when measuring dose with varying kV settings compared to the baseline?
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What is the purpose of measuring the half value layer in X-ray diagnostics?
What is the purpose of measuring the half value layer in X-ray diagnostics?
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How often should the exposure time be tested as part of quality assurance?
How often should the exposure time be tested as part of quality assurance?
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What is the purpose of aligning the light beam with the X-ray field?
What is the purpose of aligning the light beam with the X-ray field?
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What should be done if misalignment is greater than +/- 3 cm during X-ray testing?
What should be done if misalignment is greater than +/- 3 cm during X-ray testing?
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What does the alignment testing involving a Perspex cylinder consist of?
What does the alignment testing involving a Perspex cylinder consist of?
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Why is it seldom necessary to perform a separate test for light beam field size?
Why is it seldom necessary to perform a separate test for light beam field size?
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What is the recommended focus to detector distance for the initial alignment testing?
What is the recommended focus to detector distance for the initial alignment testing?
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What indicates a remedial level misalignment in the X-ray alignment test?
What indicates a remedial level misalignment in the X-ray alignment test?
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Which tool is used to ensure the tube is centred to the detector during testing?
Which tool is used to ensure the tube is centred to the detector during testing?
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What is the purpose of making an exposure at low kV/mAs during testing?
What is the purpose of making an exposure at low kV/mAs during testing?
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What is the primary reason for keeping all acquisition parameters the same when comparing test results?
What is the primary reason for keeping all acquisition parameters the same when comparing test results?
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Which test has the highest frequency requirement for Quality Assurance protocols?
Which test has the highest frequency requirement for Quality Assurance protocols?
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What does the CQC Inspector primarily look for in the documentation of quality assurance tests?
What does the CQC Inspector primarily look for in the documentation of quality assurance tests?
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What is the purpose of the Light beam field size calibration test?
What is the purpose of the Light beam field size calibration test?
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Which of the following is NOT classified as a Level A test?
Which of the following is NOT classified as a Level A test?
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What is a key priority in performing quality assurance tests?
What is a key priority in performing quality assurance tests?
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Why is it important to document results of quality assurance tests?
Why is it important to document results of quality assurance tests?
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What is the focus of the alignment of X-ray to light beam?
What is the focus of the alignment of X-ray to light beam?
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Study Notes
Quality Assurance
- Quality Assurance (QA) is a crucial process for ensuring safe X-ray equipment performance.
- Standardised tests are used to check alignment and X-ray beam parameters, ensuring safe operation.
- Testing is performed by Radiographers and Medical Physics staff.
Fundamentals of Radiation and Radiation Safety Module Timeline 2024-2025
- The module timeline outlines key dates for lectures, seminars, virtual simulations, on-campus simulations, a mock assessment, and exams.
- The schedule includes lectures, seminars, and virtual and on-campus simulations spread across September, October, November, and December.
- A mock assessment and MCQ exam are scheduled.
- Holidays are also included in the timeline.
Module Learning Objectives
- Students need to understand the significance of ionising radiation regulations and radiographers' responsibilities.
- Students should demonstrate radiation protection methods within diagnostic imaging.
Today's Learning Outcomes
- Understanding the importance of Quality Assurance (QA).
- Familiarity with the types of QA tests required.
- Introduction to remedial and suspension performance levels.
Quality Assurance Requirements
- This section likely covers the regulatory and operational requirements for maintaining quality in radiology equipment and procedures.
QA - we HAVE to do it
- Regulations (IRR 17, Reg 33) require employers to implement suitable QA programs to ensure equipment can restrict exposure according to intended use.
When must we do QA?
- QA is required before new equipment is used, even before training.
- Routine QA checks are needed at set intervals.
- Particular attention is needed after major maintenance, even if parts not directly related to patient protection are touched.
Acceptance / Commissioning
- Acceptance/Commissioning tests are performed by the purchaser's representative (usually Medical Physics) to ensure proper equipment functioning according to specifications.
- It ensures equipment is ready for clinical use and establishes baselines.
- Confirming that requirements of IRR Reg 33 are met is also included in this process.
Baseline Values
- Baseline values are established during commissioning, used to compare subsequent performance tests.
- Baseline values are set for each routinely performed test.
Routine Testing
- Regular performance (constancy) testing is used to detect any changes in system performance.
- Results are compared to baseline values.
- Radiographers and medical physicists perform routine testing.
Major Maintenance
- Major maintenance involves changes or replacement of components like X-ray tubes or software.
- QA is crucial after major maintenance.
- QA should be performed after each engineer visit.
Routine QA Tests
- IPEM Report 91 (Published 2005) lists routines QA tests and tolerances, but it is currently being revised.
Two Levels of Testing
- Level A testing includes more frequent, simple pass/fail tests, usually performed by Radiographers.
- Level B testing involves less frequent but more detailed checks requiring more equipment, and are performed by Medical Physics staff.
- There are different priorities assigned to the levels of testing.
The Recipe Book
- IPEM Report 32 provides detailed information and guidance on performing various radiation protection tests and justifying their necessity.
Which Exposure Parameters?
- To compare results, use the same acquisition parameters (kV, mA, exposure time, focus to detector distance, and collimation) across different tests.
Documentation
- Comprehensive documentation of QA results is vital.
- CQC inspectors require evidence of QA procedures and that results fall within tolerance limits.
X-ray and Light Beam Alignment
- Proper alignment of the light beam and X-ray beam is essential to ensure accurate patient positioning and exposure.
- Matching the centers of the beams ensures the X-ray field covers the indicated area on the patient.
X-ray to Light Beam Alignment - Testing
- Place the alignment plate on the detector, set the distance to 100 cm, adjust the light field, and make an exposure at low kV/mAs.
- Results should be evaluated for alignment and any misalignment should be corrected.
X-ray to Light Beam Alignment - Results
- Remedial level is reached when misalignment is greater than +/- 1 cm.
- Suspension level occurs at misalignment of greater than +/- 3 cm.
X-ray to Light Beam Centring - Testing
- Use the same procedure as alignment testing, but with a Perspex cylinder containing ball bearings.
- Evaluate the results to assess the beam centring.
X-ray to Light Beam Centring - Results
- The remedial level for misalignment is > +/- 1 cm.
Light Beam Field Size - Testing
- In most cases, light beam field size testing is combined with other tests.
Distances and Scales
- Accurate distances are crucial for proper imaging and to control the radiation dose to the patients.
- Specific distances and settings are required for specific examinations.
Distances and Scales - Testing
- Measure the actual source-to-detector distance with a tape measure.
- Compare the measured value with the indicated value.
Quality Assurance Tests- X-ray Tube Output
- Testing X-ray tube output ensures consistent radiation dose and effective image quality.
X-ray Tube Output - Testing
- Place the dose detector in the centre of the light field and collimate well.
- Set the appropriate source-to-detector distance.
- Obtain measurements across specific parameters.
X-ray Tube Output - Testing - Repeatability
- Repeatability checks the consistency of output for similar exposures at the same settings.
X-ray Tube Output - Testing - Reproducibility
- Reproducibility monitors how parameters (kV, mA, s) impact measured output.
- Check that the trend of the kV measurement stays the same as its starting baseline.
Additional Level B Tests - Exposure Time, Tube Potential, Half-Value Layer
- These additional Level B tests provide further comprehensive evaluation of X-ray parameters.
Exposure Time & Tube Potential
- Establish appropriate ranges for kV and time settings.
- Evaluate exposure time parameters to ensure they meet the required safety standards and intended patient dose.
Half Value Layer - Testing
- Set constant kV and mAs, using increasingly thick aluminium absorbers to evaluate how much radiation is being absorbed.
- This step helps find the half-value layer.
Further Comparisons
- Evaluate system performance based on its previous initial performance levels.
- Compare among different systems using the same tools (and parameters).
Comparing Systems
- Use consistent testing equipment (e.g., dose meters, test tools) and parameters (kV, mA, exposure time).
Summary
- Quality Assurance is required to ensure the safety and performance of X-ray equipment and testing.
- The procedures involve standardised tests, and testing by radiographers and medical physicists.
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Description
This quiz focuses on key regulations concerning quality assurance in clinical environments, specifically referencing IRR 17 and IRMER 17. Participants will explore essential requirements, responsibilities of employers regarding equipment, and the broader implications of quality assurance practices. Test your understanding of these vital aspects of healthcare compliance.
