Radiation Safety and Regulatory Requirements of X-Ray Performed in a Chiropractic Office

This course is designed to give the chiropractor and the ACRRT-Certified Chiropractic Assistant who performs X-rays a clinical working knowledge of radiation safety, the latest procedures for x-ray examination of the spine and extremities and the PA DEP requirements to produce x-rays in Pennsylvania. Instructions of factors to utilize for the protection of the patient and the operator while producing x-rays of the patient will be presented.

The 4-hour presentation meets the PA DEP requirement for the DC and the ACRRT-Certified CA to receive the 4-hours of CE every 4 years, in between state inspections, and on those subjects outlined below.

Outline of this course:

Hour 1- Requirements of PA State Board of Chiropractic regarding use of x-ray by DC’s and staff.

History of X-ray. Basic Principles of X-ray. Film Handling.

Physics and Equipment. To gain a firm understanding of the physical properties pertaining to production of x-rays for the purposes of diagnostic imaging

Hour 2- Principles and Biological Effects of Radiation Exposure

Methods of Radiation Protection. To obtain a fundamental understanding of radiobiology and radiation safety principles for operator and patient which apply to operation of x-ray imaging devices. CR &DR units will be discussed.

Hour 3- DEP regulations for plain film X-rays in PA

Taking phantom images for digital x-ray machines as required by DEP 

Hour 4- Cervical, Thoracic and Lumbar Spine positioning.

Positioning for Pelvis, Sacrum, Coccyx, Chest, Ribs, Skull and Extremities.

Common x-ray findings in a chiropractor’s office