Course Description
Computed tomography (CT) is an essential tool in modern healthcare, offering detailed high-resolution cross-sectional views of the body. Its widespread availability, speed, and expanding clinical applications have driven steady growth, with almost 93 million CT imaging studies performed annually in the United States, with usage increasing by about 10% per year. However, the growing reliance on CT has raised concerns about the potential risks of radiation exposure, particularly its association with cancer. Although CT scans account for 11% of all diagnostic imaging examinations, they deliver almost 70% of the total allowed radiation dose to patients. These concerns highlight the importance of balancing the diagnostic benefits of CT with potential long-term risks and minimizing radiation dose whenever possible. Radiologic technologists (RTs) play a central role in patient education and radiation protection. This course will review CT image production, the impact of radiation exposure on the body, key dose metrics, and practical strategies to optimize scanning protocols while minimizing radiation exposure. This course will also explore emerging technologies, including dose modulation techniques and postprocessing algorithms, designed to reduce radiation use while preserving image quality. Upon completion of the course, RTs will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide a safe environment for their patients while confidently acquiring high-quality diagnostic images.

Learning Objectives
After reviewing the content, the participant should be able to:

• EXPLAIN the basic principles of ionizing radiation in CT imaging.
• IDENTIFY the primary sources of radiation absorption during CT imaging and the potential biologic effects of radiation exposure.
• SUMMARIZE key CT radiation dose metrics used for monitoring patient and personnel exposure, along with their documentation practices.
• DEMONSTRATE effective strategies for RTs to minimize radiation exposure to their patients and other imaging personnel during CT imaging.
• EVALUATE dose-reduction technologies used in CT for minimizing radiation exposure while maintaining image quality.

Categories: Computed Tomography (CT)/Radiation Safety/Protection

Submit the completed answers to determine if you have passed the post-test assessment. You must answer 18 out of 24 questions correctly to receive CE credit. You will have no more than 3 attempts to successfully complete the post-test.
Participants successfully completing the activity content and passing the post-test will receive 2.5 ARRT Category A credits.

Approved by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists for ARRT Category A credit.

Approved by the state of Florida for ARRT Category A credit (for Technical credits).

Texas direct credit.

This activity may be available in multiple formats or from different sponsors. ARRT does not allow CE activities such as Internet courses, home study programs, or directed readings to be repeated for CE credit in the same biennium.