Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University

Bachelor of Diagnostic Radiography

Health Sciences and Social Services - Promotive Health and Developmental Services

Purpose and Rationale

A person who has achieved this qualification will have demonstrated competency in applying scientific, practical, and clinical knowledge, skills, and insights to practice independently within the Health Care Team, up to level 3 care.

Outcomes

  1. Apply scientific knowledge and skills to perform and adapt diagnostic techniques, applicable to the clinical presentation, for the optimum benefit of the patient. 1.1 Apply radiographic techniques to produce diagnostic images. 1.2 Apply and integrate knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology in the radiographic procedure. 1.3 Competency utilise equipment in the production of optimal quality images for diagnosis. 1.4 Control production and processing of images, including storage and retrieval of digital images. 2 Assess radiographic images for radiographic quality and pattern recognition. 2.1 Assess the request from and 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. 3.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.
  2. Apply appropriate health and safety regulations, ethnical 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 relevant regulations to ensure the patients, 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Access, utilise and communicate information applicable to the radiographic services. 6.1 Manage and utilise information technology.

Assessment Criteria

Radiography Skills and Knowledge

  1. Diagnostic Techniques

    • Perform routine and specialised radiographic procedures with and without contrast medium.
    • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of CT, MRI, and vascular imaging.
    • Assist during CT, MRI, and vascular studies.
    • Apply radiation protection and safety measures.
  2. Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology

    • Demonstrate knowledge of anatomy, anatomical relationships, cross-sectional anatomy, physiology, and pathology.
  3. Imaging Systems

    • Select and utilize imaging systems appropriately.
    • Demonstrate understanding of equipment and accessory equipment used in imaging systems.
  4. Image Quality

    • Use correct exposure factors.
    • Apply image manipulation and appropriate image recording media.
    • Evaluate images for diagnostic value and adhere to ALARA principles.
    • Store and retrieve digital images effectively.
    • Operate equipment safely and apply radiation safety measures.

Radiographic Image Assessment

  1. Radiographic Image Evaluation

    • Read request forms and assess patients before each examination.
    • Evaluate radiographic images for quality and positioning.
    • Recognize normal and abnormal appearances for proper diagnosis and patient management.
  2. Patient Care

    • Demonstrate understanding of human behavior in a diverse environment.
    • Provide optimal patient care and communicate effectively for specialized contrast examinations.
    • Acknowledge patient's psychological diversity and clinical condition.
  3. Ethical Practice

    • Protect patient rights and uphold professional ethics.
    • Exercise discretion, judgment, and responsibility in professional decisions.
    • Report unethical or illegal activities and ensure informed consent processes.

Health and Safety Regulations

  1. Legislation and Safety
    • Demonstrate understanding of relevant legislation and safety regulations.
    • Develop department radiation protection protocols and adhere to ethical and legal requirements.

Resource Management

  1. Management Practice

    • Make effective decisions regarding patient care and manage resources cost-effectively.
    • Implement time management, resolve conflicts, and manage human resources within legislation.
    • Maintain quality assurance and promote the profession of radiography.
  2. Information Utilization

    • Use database and spreadsheet software to gather, interpret, and present information effectively.
    • Communicate information using technology.

Integrated Assessments

  • Continuous evaluation of theoretical, practical, and clinical aspects through tests, assignments, projects, case studies, and clinical assessments.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
360
SAQA Source
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Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Description
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is a public university located in Pretoria, South Africa. It was established in 2014 and is named after Sefako Makgatho, a former president of the African National Congress. SMU specializes in health sciences education and research, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, and allied health sciences. The university is committed to producing competent healthcare professionals who can contribute to the improvement of healthcare in South Africa and beyond. SMU places a strong emphasis on community engagement and strives to address the healthcare needs of underserved populations. The university collaborates with various healthcare institutions and organizations to provide practical training opportunities for its students and to conduct research that addresses local health challenges. With its state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated faculty, SMU aims to be a leading institution in health sciences education and research in Africa. It is committed to promoting excellence, innovation, and social accountability in healthcare education and practice.

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