RSTI FocalSpot > 2016.02

OVER 30 YEARS OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING EXCELLENCE // ISSUE 2.16 #THINKRSTI

NEWS FROM THE LEADER IN RADIOLOGICAL SERVICE TRAINING // RADIOLOGICAL SERVICE TRAINING INSTITUTE

FULLY ENGAGED NEW DAY 4 #CLE BEYOND PARTS LEARNING, NOW! AND THE #RNC POWER UP FIND THE FULL 2016 RSTI TRAINING COURSE INSERT INSIDE // VISIT RSTI ONLINE @ RSTI-TRAINING.COM THE PRESIDENT’S LENS // 2-3

COURSE SCHEDULE // INSERT

NEW! PHILIPS ELEVA TRAINING LAB // 4

ALL HANDS ON DECK // 9

DAVE’S RAVE // 6

RSTI EXCHANGE UPDATE // 10-11

NEW TEAM MEMBERS // 7

NUCLEAR MEDICINE SYSTEMS CLASS // 12

STATE OF OH REG. NO. 93-09-1377T // ©2015 RSTI | DESIGN BY MOSSMEDIA

FULLY ENGAGED LEARNING (FuEL) FROM THE LENS OF DALE COVER, RSTI PRESIDENT move on and hope that context will, at some later point in the book, fill in for what you missed by not knowing that word?

Imagine now that you are making your way through an on-line training package, hoping to master a complicated concept or learn how a specific engineering function is achieved in a high tech piece of equipment. At this point you shoot off an e-mail to the instructor or wait until the scheduled group session to pose your question. However, human nature would say that moving on to the next topic is the more likely choice even if you don’t quite understand the previous concept. We are driven to move on because it is important to complete the class in a timely fashion.

At RSTI we believe that when you have questions or difficulty with anything it’s best to stop right now and get an answer or a different explanation that better relates to your understanding.

W

hat is fully engaged learning? Normally when we speak about engagement we think of getting the participants to be involved, to interact and to share in the activities of a group.

When it comes to learning, taking a class on a computer would seem to be the antithesis of engagement. At RSTI we feel that engagement is the key to achieving high levels of understanding, particularly when your career is at stake.

How does being at RSTI’s training center improve the training experience and foster engagement?

Have you ever been reading a book and come across a word you don’t recognize or can’t remember the meaning? Do you stop and look it up or do you simply

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The continuity of training, without interruption, is key to FuEL. Speaking of timely, on-line or self-paced training usually takes more time to complete than a live class would. Eight hours a day are dedicated to learning when you physically attend a class, but self-paced classes are usually completed in micro-sessions as time presents itself. This can drag on for weeks, months and even years.

Coming to RSTI’s training center has multiple benefits for our students. Once you enter our labs and see the diverse range of equipment that is dedicated to your hands-on learning objectives, the first benefit will be clear. Next is the fact that we own the equipment and no one will be upset if we take the entire system apart or accidentally damage the system during an in-depth experiment. Failures in these systems are viewed as an opportunity to conduct real life troubleshooting without having someone breathing down your neck.

Having equipment to work on in labs is very important, but full engagement also requires the ability to concentrate on the learning objectives without outside interruptions.

It is quite likely that if you were sitting at your desk at work trying to complete an on-line class, your supervisor or co-workers would still view you as available to take a call.

You can’t be completely engaged in your learning experience if you sit down to try and learn a specific topic for a few minutes, get called out to “take a quick look” at something, then come back to try to finish only to get called out again. In this case, learning becomes a secondary goal. When you come to RSTI learning is the primary objective. Yes, I have worked with those students who are constantly called by their office or clients even after posting an out of office notice, but they usually don’t have to respond until class is out on a break or over lunch.

Please don’t take this the wrong way, but being away from the family can also enhance learning opportunities too. Many times our students will get together in the evenings to form study groups which continue the learning engagement even beyond the classroom.

When you are here at RSTI, you will find yourself surrounded by like-minded individuals who, like you, are here to enhance their skills and boost their careers.

Being around that mentality is very motivating; it’s kind of like working out at home alone compared to working out with your regular group of friends at the gym.

Many training offerings out there promise everything can be done in one week at a cost that appears to be super low. You may ask are our classes always the shortest or are we always the lowest cost alternative? Well, sometimes. But there.

#FULLYENGAGEDLEARNING

Dale Cover P R E S I D E N T, R S T I

WWW.RSTI-TRAINING.COM // CALL 440.349.4700 // 3

NEW! PHILIPS ELEVA TRAINING LAB SEE THE INCLUDED COURSE INDEX FOR TRAINING DATES

BY JOE GEARY RSTI Instructor

For 31 years, RSTI has been providing the diagnostic imaging industry with the highest quality service training in the world.

In order to provide state-of-the-art training, you need state-of-the-art training equipment, and the team at RSTI is dedicated to using the latest training equipment to ensure our students have all the tools they will need to succeed in their careers.

Our labs are continually updated to reflect the currently installed diagnostic imaging systems from the major medical device manufacturers. Most recently, we installed a Philips Eleva EasyDiagnost radiographic and fluoroscopic imaging system to give our students a wider variety of lab equipment on which to apply classroom learning. For now, the Eleva will be available for use in the Phase classes. Soon we will begin the development of an advanced product-specific class that focuses on maintenance and troubleshooting of the Eleva.

Having state-of-the-art labs allows our students the critical hands-on experience required to obtain a complete understanding of the system -- from how to remove the covers to component replacement procedures. Another benefit of the hands-on training is the empowerment to identify the location of the important test points, and applying the knowledge obtained in the classroom using the latest test equipment offerings from all the major test equipment providers. This allows our students to gain a greater understanding of the system and become more proficient with both the system tests and the testing equipment. At RSTI, we feel classroom instruction must be complemented with hands-on lab activities for a complete understanding of any system.

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WWW.RSTI-TRAINING.COM // CALL 440.349.4700 // 5

DAVE’S RAVE OEC C-ARMS: ONE WEEK OR TWO WEEKS?

BY DAVE DOMANSKI // RSTI INSTRUCTOR

Often, I am asked whether a student should take the one week OEC 9900-only course or the two-week OEC 9800/9900 course.

The answer really depends upon the student: If you have a lot experience with the 9800 or have attended our 9600/9800 class in the past, the one-week 9900 class should suffice. If you are new to OEC C-arms, I would generally recommend the two week 9800/9900 class. Keep in mind that the C-arm portion of both machines is nearly identical -- the big differences are in the workstations.

I’d be rich if I had a dime for every time I heard the question, “Will we be getting our hands on the machine?”

Heck, I was once asked by a department manager if we actually HAD a C-arm for the class! The manager had sent an engineer to a different company for training and the engineer never actually touched the machine being taught. There’s PLENTY of hands-on work in the labs at RSTI. Of course, we do all of the image system alignments (generator, power supply and dose calibrations, tube replacement, II/camera and C-arm removal, diagnostics, software loading and troubleshooting) as well as making sure that you

understand why you are doing these adjustments in both classes.

THE ONE WEEK CLASS is quite concentrated, as we are packing as much useful information as possible into a mere 4.5 days. This kind of experience doesn’t come from a book or a computer screen. We at RSTI believe this kind of experience only comes when trainees perform training on the same medical devices that service and maintenance engineers see every day.

THE TWO-WEEK CLASS allows us to proceed at a more relaxed pace, and delve more deeply into the theory behind the operation of the many subsystems within the C-arm and the workstations. This is ultimately very helpful with troubleshooting for those new to the OEC product line.

Now that I’ve helped you decide which class is best suited to your needs and experience level, register for your RSTI training today -- I look forward to seeing you at RSTI!

– Dave

DON’T FORGET TO EXPLORE OUR 2016-17 COURSE SCHEDULE INSERT, CONVENIENTLY REDESIGNED AND REFORMATTED AS A LARGER PULLOUT INSERT IN THIS NEWSLETTER! 6 // FOCALSPOT.ISSUE2.16

NEW! RSTI TEAM MEMBERS GAYLA HULLINGER SOURCING AND SERVICE COORDINATOR Gayla recently joined RSTI as our sourcing and service coordinator. She brings 6+ years experience in the medical field sourcing parts and developing vendor relations. Her work supporting the sales force will enhance customer satisfaction and ensure they get the best value possible on the parts and systems they seek. As the service coordinator Gayla will be the focal point for scheduling and record keeping for our customer support services. Outside the office, Gayla loves to be with her family and take her boxer Harley for walks and to the park.

DONOVAN JACOBS WAREHOUSE ASSOCIATE Donavon recently joined RSTI as a warehouse associate. Among Donovan’s duties are inventory control and shipping and receiving. Prior to RSTI he worked in the construction industry for 13 years as a Commercial Roofer. In his free time, Donavon enjoys his Saltwater Reef Aquarium and watching basketball games while eating cheeseburgers. He also describes himself as one of the biggest Cleveland Cavaliers fans!

AARON ANDERSON WAREHOUSE ASSOCIATE

TESTIMONIAL

Aaron joined RSTI to assist with the growing warehousing, and equipment transportation and testing needs. Aaron brings three years of warehousing experience gained during his time spent the sheet metal industry. Aaron has been working in the field of medical imaging now for one year and through determination and working with the warehouse team and instructor he has become proficient in servicing most every modality and is developing a specialty in computed tomography. Aaron is also perusing a degree Biomedical Electrical Engineering Technology, with a scheduled completion in spring 2018.

“I completed the Phase 1: Principles of Servicing Diagnostic X-Ray Systems this past spring while I was attending Western Technical College as a Biomedical Equipment Technician student. I wanted to let you know that I have accepted a job at Mayo Clinic in the Medical Imaging department. Having completed the Phase 1 course at RSTI was a large factor in getting selected for this position. I wanted to take a moment to thank you all for having provided that opportunity to me. I had a great time while at your institution and the knowledge I gained through the course will be of great benefit to my career.” – Tim Z., RSTI Alumnus

WWW.RSTI-TRAINING.COM // CALL 440.349.4700 // 7

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ALL HANDS ON DECK PHILIPS BRILLIANCE // TWO WEEK COURSE

BY DUSTIN ZIMMERMAN RSTI Instructor Experience builds confidence when it pertains to servicing Computed Tomography systems. Our Philips Brilliance CT course is a 2 week course in which 80 to 90 percent of the class is hands-on time with the system. During the first day, we cover the basic system overview, detector theory, X-ray generation, etc.

Everything else is done at the system.

For many of us in technical service, it is easier to retain what we have learned if we put our hands on it while we learn.

Sitting in a classroom, while necessary, is a harder way for us to learn.

For example, when we cover power distribution, we do it at the system. Instead of reading schematics on a projector, we bring them out to the scanner and trace it out practically. Data transmission theory is another good example -- when done on the scanner, it is much easier to understand. When it comes to troubleshooting, we won’t just discuss how, we will use a bypass kit to diagnose the data path and properly determine which component is defective.

One of the most common issues in CT is identifying and mitigating artifacts. Every CT class that I have attended in my career has spent very little time covering these common problems. At RSTI, we understand the importance of covering common problems with the depth and the time you need to master these issues.

We cover ring artifacts, band artifacts, streaks, and their causes. Artifact troubleshooting is one of the most important tools engineers must possess if they want to be successful.

The hands-on environment we have created for this training builds confidence and makes it easier to

process the theory…and confidence is what you will need when it comes time to replace your X-Ray tube.

The tube change procedure can be complicated on Philips CT, but following the detailed instruction we provide in this class, you will be up to the task.

I have been asked on many occasions why our classes for CT take two weeks to complete when other companies complete the training in one. My response is because it’s necessary.

Our goal is to provide the quality training, the tools and the experience to succeed in the field.

Could we cut our class down to 1 week? Could we do a portion of it online? Perhaps, but that is not what we are about. RSTI trainees come to us for the best possible training to prepare themselves for servicing equipment at, or above an OEM level. You can’t get that from a “Cliff’s notes” training course.

I can’t imagine what could be cut out of our training to reduce the class by one whole week and still maintain the high quality of our training. Can you?

WWW.RSTI-TRAINING.COM // CALL 440.349.4700 // 9

SUMMER 2016 IN FULL SWING! THE RSTI EXCHANGE UPDATE FROM THE DESK OF TERRY SPETH VICE PRESIDENT, RSTI EXCHANGE The summer is in full swing here at RSTI-Exchange. We are still celebrating the CAVS championship and just hosted the RNC in Cleveland. The Indians are atop the AL central and looking like a contender. Last but not least, we can only hope the Browns show up to play this year.

Enough about sports and the city; here is what’s new at RSTI- Exchange. Our inventory has been growing rapidly to help cover our client’s needs. We have added a great deal of inventory such as Philips Brilliance CTs and Siemens Sensations. These units were fully tested prior to being stripped down, so you know you will receive a great working part every time.

Of course we still have all the old standbys, like parts for the Hologic Selenia, GE Digital mammography devices, and Siemens Novation. We also have parts for the Shimadzu Radspeed, and GE Definium 8000.

Speaking of the Definium 8000, we have new handles.

They are made out of a stronger plastic and will not crack or break as easily as the originals. They can be purchased as a complete assembly or just the blue portion itself and you can swap out the console screen.

Contact the sales department for pricing.

Digital detectors have also become a large portion of our business. We can supply mammography, x-ray, and portables. Let us know what you need and we can send you some pricing and warranty information. Keep in mind we can also install these parts to help insure you are up and running as fast as possible.

I hope this gives you a look into what is happening here at RSTI-Exchange. As always, let us know if you have any equipment you are looking to retire or if you need help adding something new.

–Terry Speth 10 // FOCALSPOT.ISSUE2.16

RSTI-EXCHANGE.COM UPDATES

Look for big changes coming to the RSTI-Exchange.com Website.

We’re going to make it easier for you to connect with our servie professionals, make equipment and parts inquiries, and sign up for alerts on featured parts and products in August. Changes will go live in September 2016!

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QUALITY PARTS, FAIR PRICE AND SUPPORT ASK ABOUT OUR ON-DEMAND SERVICE AND INSTALLS. Call or email our sales staff for quality tested parts, and/or on-demand service.

CALL // 440.349.4700 TERRY SPETH // TSPETH@RSTI-EXCHANGE.COM DARREL KILE // DKILE@RSTI-EXCHANGE.COM JASON WHITFIELD // JWHITFIELD@RSTI-EXCHANGE.COM WWW.RSTI-TRAINING.COM | CALL 440.349.4700 | 11

FULLY ENGAGED LEARNING HAPPENS IN EVERY RSTI LAB

NUCLEAR MEDICINE SYSTEMS CLASS “WHAT YOU TALKIN’ ‘BOUT, WILLIS?”

BY MIKE PETELIN // RSTI INSTRUCTOR Nuclear medicine is an imaging modality that is very different than other imaging modalities. However, it utilizes some of the same terminology, albeit with a very different meaning. Theory is a large part of the training, but the “hands-on” portion is what solidifies the information.

Take, for example, a collimator. In x-ray, we know that a collimator blocks x-rays from outside the desired area of interest. In nuclear medicine, a collimator is a completely different animal. It is used to direct the beam into the image receptor much like a grid in x-ray would. The restricting of off-angle radiation and the use of a point of perspective type alignment can cause different effects like image magnification.

The image receptor is known as a gamma camera.

The opportunity to actually use the equipment and accessories will help make these concepts easier to understand.

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This is much like learning a new language. We can read books or listen to “now you can speak Klingon, too” audio tapes. But until you actually speak the language conversationally with someone else, do you really know it? RSTI’s Nuclear Medicine Systems class teaches you not only to speak the language, but to thoroughly understand what you’re talking about.

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