NUCM 2301 - Physics and Instrumentation

Credit hours: 2

Prerequisites: Admission into Nuclear Medicine Technology Program

Course Description:
This course develops the student’s understanding and application of the principles of instrumentation and nuclear statistics as used in the nuclear medicine laboratory. Special emphasis is placed on the appropriate use, maintenance, and quality control of personal monitoring devices, gas and scintillation detectors. This course also introduces the student to the concept of statistical analysis and computer applications associated with radiation detection and imaging.

Student Learning Outcomes:
Students will be able to:

Understand the different theories of operation and usage for gas detectors, scintillation detectors and personal monitoring devices.
Describe and demonstrate appropriate use of gas filled detector systems.
Apply their understanding of radioactive decay and units of activity as well as count statistics, contrast, resolution, and photon energy to maximize exam quality using an Anger type scintillation detector and computer, when given certain parameters.
Develop an annual quality control program for a typical nuclear medicine lab.
Apply their understanding of component architecture, purpose, and statistical analysis to analyze and trouble shoot quality control results.
Critically evaluate the end product of clinical procedures for quality in acquisition technique, processing and presentation.