Diagnostic Imaging in Physical Therapy Practice

Diagnostic Imaging in Physical Therapy Practice An online credit course for health professionals

uab.ca/pd

REHAB 570 - DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING PROGRAM INFORMATION The course is a graduate-level three-credit distance-based course. All coursework is completed online on your own time throughout the week.

OVERALL LEARNING OUTCOMES By the end of this course the student will: •

Understand the use of diagnostic imaging within the scope of a physical therapist’s practice.

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Understand the physics, principles, risks and benefits of ­diagnostic imaging.

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Make judicious and evidence-informed decisions on when to use imaging.

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Select the most appropriate imaging modality for the clinical situation.

E-LEARNING METHODS

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Understand how to consult and make a referral to a radiologist

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Recorded lectures

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Self-directed study chapter

Use the radiology report findings to make appropriate patient care decisions.

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Case studies

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Online discussions

Know their professional responsibilities when referring and acting upon the results of imaging studies.

The course includes three hours per week of formal class content over 13 weeks (total of 39 hours).

PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY Students are enrolled as special graduate students in the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine. Eligible students include health-care ­professionals who have met Faculty of Graduate Studies and ­Research (FGSR) entrance requirements (completion of online ­graduate ­application and submission of an original copy of most recent degree transcript).

REHAB 570 DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING IN PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE (3 credits) This course will provide the knowledge and skills required to safely and effectively order and utilize diagnostic imaging in the 足management of common 足musculoskeletal conditions seen by physical therapists.

Emphasis will be placed on the 足physical therapists role in the appropriate and timely utilization of diagnostic imaging that 足facilitates patient outcomes and efficiency of the health-care system.

SPECIFIC LEARNING OBJECTIVES •

Describe the physical principles, safety, limitations and ­potential benefits of conventional radiographs, magnetic resonance ­imaging and diagnostic ultrasound.

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Justify when to use imaging based on the patient’s condition, the risks versus benefits for the patient, the best available evidence and how imaging will impact clinical care.

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Explain radiodensity and radiographic positions and projections.

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Describe the radiologic features of some common pathologies.

Select the most appropriate imaging modality for the clinical situation when imaging is indicated.

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Explain some of the common terminology used in radiological reports.

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Demonstrate how to appropriately apply clinical practice ­guidelines and/or clinical decision rules when considering imaging.

Make a clear referral that includes the type of diagnostic ­imaging, the views requested, the reason for the imaging and any relevant clinical information.

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Analyse the radiology report findings to make appropriate ­patient care decisions.

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Take timely and appropriate action in the event of unexpected or abnormal radiology findings that require medical follow-up.

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For further information about courses and course registration, please contact:

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Shawn Drefs, Director of Professional Development 780-492-1587 | sdrefs@ualberta.ca | uab.ca/pd

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