How computed tomography produces diagnostic medical images

Computed Tomography (CT)

Basic Fundamentals of Modality

Computer modality is the interaction between computers and humans, which can be unimodal or multi-modal (Karray et al., 2008). The fundamentals involve the usability of this interaction along with functionality. Functionality determines whether the purpose for which the interaction between humans and computer takes place is fulfilled or not. Usability is whether the adequate accomplishment of goals for which the interaction is created is effective in its range and degree. Humans use the most sophisticated machines, but there is no interaction if the purpose is not satisfied.

How Images are Produced

The images are produced by computerized x-ray beams coming out of the x-ray machines in computed tomography (CT) (National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering-a, n.a.). The light beams are aimed at a specific body area for which an x-ray is required. This main computer modality fulfills some purpose with interaction with humans. The signals created by the narrow light beams for generating an x-ray image produce a cross-sectional tomographic photo, a detailed depiction of the sliced body area. It is relatively better than the conventional x-ray since the digital stacking of three layers of the images is possible for letting the viewer observe a three-dimensional image. The tomographic images are visibly clearer for the physician to identify possible problems and make patient diagnosis easier.

Pathways to Obtain Education as Required by ARRT

The pathways to obtain an education as required by ARRT is receiving a higher degree in the desired subject for the concerned discipline, completion of educational programs indicated in ARRT packages such as Nuclear Medicine Technology, MRI, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, etc. and demonstration of competent practice and clinical skills that are required for the specific field (ARRT.org, 2021-a, p. 6). Afterward, there are three years to gain ARRT certification and register for the ARRT exam.

Length of Additional Studies, Cost of Additional Studies

After earning the first ART credential, one might want to gain additional certification like Registered Radiologist Assistant (RRA). The primary pathway for this credential is the same as mentioned in the previous section; however, the post-primary eligibility pathway includes possession of ARRT certification in the supporting category from any other educational institute (ARRT.org, 2021-a, p. 60). Both primary and post-primary eligibility pathways have to be completed for earning extra credentials. As an attempt of ARRT is given three times, the time duration of the additional studies might increase if the first two attempts are failed. The full-time course of study for ARRT takes two years and six semesters to complete. In contrast, additional certification would take more semesters, adding to the costs of the educational eligibility as well. Due to 1st January 2022, ARRT costs would be increased from $200 to $225 only for registration and certification (ARRT.org-b, 2021).

Is Education Required?

As ARRT indicates that the primary pathway for getting this particular credential eligibility requires an associate’s degree, the educational institute where the degree would be obtained should be accredited by ARRT. The degree certification needs to be submitted to ARRT before being qualified for the exam. Completing the ARRT-recognized educational program requires the persuasion that the degree has been finished at a certain time with the number of specified semesters. For instance, Cleveland Clinic mentions that if an applicant has gained a bachelor’s, Master’s, or Associate’s degree, they are suitable for sitting in the ARRT exam (Cleveland Clinic, n.a.). The well-qualified professionals are the ones who would be allowed to sit in the ARRT exam for the particular skill that they are aiming at, which could be Radiography Certification Examination, for example. Also, the applicants must meet an LCC counselor for confirmation about the degree requirements.

The goals that need to be considered while attaining the education include completion of required courses, completion of competencies that are elucidated in Competency Examination Policy, completion of compulsory and elective competencies designated in the ARRT, completion of general patient care procedures and their relevant knowledge, fulfillment of regular and make-up hours of the degree, completion of developmental examination and correction that are necessary, tuition fee must have been paid in full amount, returning the reference materials or library books before graduating, completion of graduation survey, gaining signatures on the employer release form, and submission of a short paper on the topic of professionalism, etc. (Cleveland Clinic, n.a.).