Horizon School of Radiography – Saint John

Vision

Exceptional radiography education. Every student. Every day.

Mission

The Horizon Schools of Radiological Technology, in conjunction with UNBSJ, help people be healthy by educating students to become competent and compassionate Medical Radiation Technologists who provide exceptional care to our community.

Goals

• Provide high caliber accredited radiological technology programs, ensuring students meet all competencies outlined in the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) Competency Profile for Radiological Technology.
• Recruit and admit students with exemplary potential for the field of radiography.
• Provide a safe learning environment in all didactic and clinical activities.
• Provide an education which promotes effective communication and collaborative practice within the healthcare environment.
• Foster critical thinking skills to ensure imaging services are provided in a safe, appropriate, evidence informed and competent manner.
• Graduate students with the ability to deliver quality care to diverse patient populations with dignity, equality and respect.
• Cultivate the value of scholarly inquiry, reflective practice and ongoing professional development.
• Graduate qualified individuals able to successfully meet the educational requirements for certification by the CAMRT.
• Continually strive to meet stakeholder needs.

The following compulsory courses are provided at the HSRSJ during the discipline specific portion of the Bachelor of Health Science program.

ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY I

Anatomy and physiology are scientific disciplines that investigate the structure and function of the body. The course provides knowledge and understanding of principal anatomical features, and advanced knowledge of the relationship, orientation, and characteristics of the human body to ensure accurate radiographic demonstration. Physiology is presented where it is relevant to, and contributes to, an understanding of the anatomical relationships.

Topics Covered: Basic anatomical terminology; Skeletal System: upper limb, lower limb, shoulder girdle, pelvic girdle, thoracic cage, vertebral column; Bone tissue and ossification; Tissues, membranes, & joints.

ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY II

The Anatomy & Physiology II course is a continuation of Anatomy & Physiology I (AP201). In this course we will examine principal anatomical features of the skull and facial bones, and will develop advanced knowledge of the relationship, orientation, and characteristics of bones and bony prominences to ensure accurate radiographic demonstration. In addition the course examines organ systems involved with regulation, maintenance, integration, and control of the human body. The structure and function of organs and components of respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, and circulatory systems are examined and accurately localized. Abdominopelvic organs are localized on CT images in the axial, coronal, and sagittal planes.

RADIOGRAPHIC PROCEDURES I

The course provides theoretical background and practical skills necessary to produce radiographic images to aid in diagnosis of all body parts. Students are provided fundamental knowledge to plan, perform, and adapt various radiological imaging procedures as indicated by patient condition, and / or pathology. Topics covered: Positioning Introduction and Terminology; Upper Extremity; Shoulder Girdle; Lower Extremity; Pelvic Girdle; Chest; AP Abdomen

RADIOGRAPHIC PROCEDURES II

The Radiographic Procedures II course is a continuation of Radiographic Procedures I (RP201) and provides theoretical background and practical skills necessary to produce radiographs to aid in diagnosis. Methods are examined to consistently produce, assess, and adjust radiographic images as indicated by patient condition, and or pathology. Examinations of the skeletal system and cranium are examined in routine, non-routine, and trauma situations. Methods will be examined to prepare a patient and produce images for examinations of the respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems with and without contrast media.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT I

The Patient Management I course is designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize and respond to patient’s physical and emotional needs in a professional manner. Topics Covered: Patient Safety, Body Mechanics, Transfer Techniques, Infection Control, Preventing Disease Transmission, Dressing & Elimination, Vital Signs, Oxygen & Suction Therapy.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT II

The Patient Management II course is a continuation of Patient Management I (PM201) and is designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize and respond to patient’s physical and emotional needs in a professional manner. Topics of study include: Contrast media and reactions, Gastrointestinal procedure preparation, Care of pediatric and geriatric populations, Diversity & inclusion, Surgical asepsis, Procedure scheduling and sequencing, Basic ECG monitoring, and Medical emergencies.

COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY

Computed Tomography (CT401) examines the procedure involved in performing CT scans of the body including: patient preparation, identification of image parameters, injection of iodinated contrast media and image acquisition. Sectional anatomy of the body in axial, coronal and sagittal planes is examined using enhanced and unenhanced CT and MR images of the: head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, vertebral column and skeletal system.

SPECIAL PROCEDURES

Specialized Procedures (SP402) examines the performance of specialized radiographic procedures of body systems and the radiographic images which best demonstrate affected anatomy.  The procedures involved in the performance of: mammography, angiography and interventional radiology, nervous system, and forensic radiography will be examined. This course is completed in conjunction with RS400, and the material contributes to the review and exam preparation covered in that course.

RADIOGRAPHIC PATHOLOGY I

Common pathological conditions as related to safety and care of the patient will be examined. Emphasis is placed on conditions affecting patient positioning, the radiographic image, and the technologist’s role in caring for the patient. Topics of discussion include: Pathological terminology and processes; Types, management, and healing of fracture; Congenital and acquired conditions of the Skeletal, Respiratory, and Digestive systems are examined with emphasis on pathologies having marked radiographic significance. 

RADIOGRAPHIC PATHOLOGY II

Pathology II (PA401) is a continuation of Pathology I (PA302) and examines common pathological conditions as related to safety and care of the patient.  Emphasis is placed on conditions affecting patient positioning, the radiographic image, and the technologist’s role in caring for the patient. Topics of discussion: Examination of congenital and acquired conditions of the digestive, biliary, urinary, reproductive, cardiovascular, nervous, hemopoietic, and endocrine systems with emphasis on pathologies having marked radiographic significance.

RADIATION PHYSICS

The Radiation Physics course provides a basic knowledge and understanding of the principles and theories of atomic structure, electricity, magnetism, and electromagnetism including motors, generators, and transformers. This course also provides in depth knowledge of the production of x-rays, x-ray emission spectra, properties of x-radiation, and attenuation processes occurring in the range of energies used in diagnostic radiology. New students are provided with a general orientation introducing them to radiological technology fundamentals such as the history of x-rays and radiography, pertinent professional organizations and regulating bodies, image formation and technical factors (kV, mA, exposure time), patient factors affecting x-ray absorption (part thickness, atomic number, mass density).

RADIATION PROTECTION

The Radiation Safety course provides knowledge and understanding of the principles and technical aspects of radiation protection in diagnostic radiology. It provides knowledge of the potential risks and benefits of radiation exposure, factors affecting dose, dose limits and methods of dose reduction to personnel and patients as well as methods of detection and measurement.

HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALISM

The Health Care Professionalism course explores the depths of what it truly means to be a professional and what constitutes professionalism in health care. This course provides a basic knowledge and understanding of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, how it relates to ego development, and how ego can negatively influence professional behaviors. This course also discusses qualities of effective leadership, the importance of appropriate appearances, and the criticality of good communication in health care while exploring strategies to assist health care providers in becoming better communicators. The course addresses the need to practice within regulatory ethical guidelines, practicing in a manner that protects patient’s legal rights, and practicing according to federal and provincial legislation.

INTRODUCTION TO IMAGING

The Introduction to Imaging course provides foundational knowledge for the use of digital radiographic imaging systems. Basic radiation physics, PSP (Photostimulable Phosphor) image capture systems, FPD (Flat Panel Detector) image capture systems, anti-scatter grid technologies (physical grids and smart grids), the importance of considering Source to Image Distance (SID), and the fundamentals of radiographic technique and exposure factor adjustment will be discussed. Basics of computer technology will be discussed. Foundational image quality characteristics such as brightness, contrast, automatic rescaling, image noise, exposure latitude and dynamic range are also discussed at a functional level. The design, function and use of anti-scatter grids is discussed in depth. Additionally, students will learn foundational computer and networking concepts, leading to a functional understanding of Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS), Radiology Information Systems (RIS), Health Information Systems (HIS), and Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM)

IMAGING TECHNOLOGY

The Imaging Technology course provides the student with a deeper knowledge and understanding of the structure function and operation of digital radiography systems including image acquisition, latent image formation, and latent image extraction. The course provides the student with advanced knowledge and understanding of automatic digital image extraction and processing, and automatic/manual post-processing, image display and display monitors, and factors affecting radiographic image quality. The course also provides the knowledge and understanding of the principles of image quality, an in-depth discussion on digital image optimization in practice, and fundamental principles of image evaluation. The course also provides the knowledge and understanding of the components of X-ray imaging systems, the function and use of X-ray tubes, the function and use of beam restriction devices.

APPARATUS

The Apparatus course provides the knowledge and understanding of advanced skills for the operation of CT scanners. The components, function, and use of equipment associated with conventional and digital fluoroscopic imaging systems are also discussed. Students will also gain knowledge and understanding of the parts and function mammographic equipment, as well as the knowledge required for the use of bone mineral densitometry (BMD) equipment and basic interpretation of BMD test results. An introduction to other diagnostic imaging modalities (Nuclear Medicine, and Ultrasound) is also provided additional to a discussion on emerging technological trends in diagnostic imaging.

RADIOBIOLOGY

The Radiobiology course examines the biological events that follow the absorption of x-radiation, the efforts of the organism to compensate, and the resultant damage to the organism. Topics include cellular structure, DNA, the cell cycle, molecular and gross chromosomal changes resulting from radiation exposure, cell types, modes of radiation related damage to cell groups and biological tissues and organs, and the classification of tissues and organs according to radiosensitivity. Radiation effects on the developing fetus, radiation effects occurring in the diagnostic range of radiation exposures, and comparison of loss of life expectancy due to radiation exposure and other causes are also considered.

QUALITY MANAGEMENT

The Quality Management course provides the knowledge to appreciate the need, purpose and importance of Quality Assurance and Quality Control Programs in Diagnostic Imaging. It provides the student with the knowledge and skills to perform basic QC testing on general radiographic equipment, fluoroscopic equipment, CT equipment, and accessory equipment, along with the knowledge and skills required to analyze the results. This course also provides the student with knowledge of standardized QC Practices as outlined in the Health Canada Safety Code 35.

RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGE ANALYSIS

Image Critique 401 (IC401) is a continuation of the image analysis and critique performed as part of RP201 & RP302. There are no lectures and no “new” information is presented. Students are provided with radiographic images to analyze, and then the images are reviewed and discussed as a group led by the instructor. Image critique classes will be accompanied by rad lab practice sessions. Topics Covered: Image analysis and critique, considering criteria such as radiographic quality, positioning, anatomy, collimation, presence of artifacts, use of radiographic markers, diagnostic vs. “textbook” images, presence of obvious pathology, etc.

CLINICAL EXPERIENCE 200

CE200 is an intensive 15-week period of clinical learning for Junior students during their second year of the BHSc, major in Radiography. The purpose of the course is to prepare and immerse students in clinical learning by introducing them to foundational principles of radiological technology and providing ample pre-clinical opportunity to practice essential radiographic skills and simulate clinical processes prior to patient contact in the clinical environment. In conjunction with didactic learning, students will learn fundamental skills to be able to perform core tasks in General Radiography. During this course, students will begin to gain an understanding of the role of a Radiologic Technologist in the healthcare team. CE200 will provide opportunities to learn and apply basic knowledge and skills in the clinical environment under the direct supervision of a clinical instructor, student supervisor, or clinical preceptor. CE200 establishes a solid foundation of knowledge and skills upon which advanced Beginner and Intermediate skills can develop, setting students up for successful learning experiences in the diverse clinical environment. Progression from a novice level to a beginner level of performance is the goal is this course. Topics covered: Department/Hospital Orientation; Computer & Paperwork Completion; IMPAX/XERO/QDoc/QPlanner/; Equipment Usage; Hospital Codes/ Patient Transfer Techniques; Wheelchair/Stretcher/Bed Usage; Patient Preparation/Safety; Radiographic Procedures of: Upper Extremity, Shoulder Girdle, Lower Extremity, Pelvic Girdle, Chest.

CLINICAL EXPERIENCE 300

CE300 is an intensive 13-week period of clinical learning for senior students during their third year of the BHSc, major in Radiography. During this course, students will continue to gain an understanding of the role of a Radiologic Technologist, and develop essential radiographic, patient management, technical, and interpersonal skills in the clinical environment under the direct/indirect supervision of a clinical instructor, student supervisor, or clinical preceptor. Progression from a beginner level to an advanced beginner level of performance is the goal is this course. Topics covered: Pediatric Examinations; Trauma Radiography; OR Procedures; Intro to CT; Fluoroscopic Procedures; Examinations in the Morgue; Attending to basic Physiologic Needs; Radiographic Procedures of: Spine, Skull, Mobile Exams, Post-op/Trauma Hip, Abdomen.

CLINICAL EXPERIENCE 400

CE400 is an intensive 21-week period of clinical learning for Graduate students during their fourth year of the BHSc, major in Radiography. During this course, students will gain a deeper understanding of the role of a Radiologic Technologist, and to further develop essential radiographic, advanced imaging, patient management, technical, and interpersonal skills in the clinical environment under the indirect supervision of a clinical instructor, student supervisor, or clinical preceptor. Progression from an intermediate level to a competent level of performance is the goal is this course. Topics covered: OR Procedures; Trauma Radiography; CT Basics; Pediatric Examinations; Interventional Basics and Sterile Technique; Non-Routine Radiography; Comprehensive Review; Radiographic Procedures of; Sinuses, Pediatric Chest, Trauma General, OR Mobile, OR C-Arm; CT Procedures of; Head, Neck, Chest, Abdomen, Virtual Colonoscopy.

RADIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 400 (GENERAL REVIEW )

Radiological Sciences 400 is a general review of didactic course material covered in the radiography program at Horizon School of Radiography – Saint John Campus using a variety of assignment types, essays, student presentations and a comprehensive examination.

University of New Brunswick Saint John Courses

The following courses are provided at the UNBSJ during the general health sciences portion of the Bachelor of Health Science program.

Required BHS Year One Courses

Biol 1441 – Anatomy and Physiology I 4ch

Chem 1041 – General Chemistry I 3ch

Phys 1011 – Intro Physics I 3ch

Psyc 1003 – Intro Psychology 3ch

Hum 1021 – Effective Writing I 3ch

Math 1001 or 1003 – Calculus 3ch

Biol 1442 – Anatomy and Physiology II 3ch

Chem 1072 – General Chemistry II 3ch

STATS 2263 – Statistics for Health Sciences 3ch

HSCI 2001 – Intro to Health Sciences 3ch

Psyc 1004 – Intro Psychology II 3ch

Open Elective – any

Required BHS Upper Level Courses

BIOL 3251 – Microbiology 3ch

COMS 2201 – Health Communications 3ch

HSCI 3092 – Health Sciences Research Fall 3ch

HSCI 3061 – Issues in the Canadian Health Care System Fall 3ch

Any one of the following Psychology courses: 3343, 3383, 3503, 3513, 3603, 3632, 3693, 3711, 3723, 3743, 3752

PSYC 3033 – Health Psychology Winter 3ch

PHIL 3133 – Health Care Ethics Winter 3ch

Elective – any level, any subject 3ch

Elective – 3000/4000 level, any subject 3ch

Elective – 3000/4000 level Biology/Psychology 3ch

PLEASE NOTE – Students must apply and be accepted to a partner program before being transferred into a BHS competitive major. The competitive major application process occurs in January of each year. Contact the Program Coordinator for more information on applications. See tables below for competitive major schedules. REGARDING TRANSFER – Non-UNB courses may be used for completion of requirements but may not count toward to completion of total CHs. It is recommended that students complete the listed requirements as soon as they are available in a Fall/Winter term. HSCI upper-level courses should only be taken after competitive major entry as they may require clinical experience for completion.

For more information on the Bachelor of Health Sciences Radiography program at University of New Brunswick Saint John, contact the Nursing and Health Sciences Coordinator at 506-648-5646 or visit http://www.unb.ca/academics/programs/health-sciences/radiography.html

For Bachelor of Health Science Admission Requirements please visit
http://www.unb.ca/admissions/requirements/index.html#

For more information on the profession of radiography in Canada please visit
http://www.camrt.ca/mrt-profession/

Link

• High School: Successful completion of Grade 12 English, Maths, Physics, Chemistry with a minimum 75% average.
• First Year Bachelor of Health Sciences program (Anatomy & Physiology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Effective Writing, Math, Statistics, and Intro to Health Sciences with a grade of C or better)
• The language of our program is English and prospective students whose mother tongue is not English may review the English language proficiency requirements on the UNBSJ website, English Language Proficiency

Notwithstanding the above, students must demonstrate competence in speaking, listening, reading and writing English to meet course requirements.

• Students apply to the Bachelor of Health Sciences by completing a UNBSJ application form.
• Students apply to the radiography discipline of the BHS program during year 1.
• BHS discipline specific application forms are available at UNBSJ through the Nursing and Health Sciences Coordinator.
• Deadline for application is January 31.
• Candidates are interviewed by Horizon School of Radiography Saint John and Moncton faculty. Interviews are typically held in March.
• After interviews are completed, applicants will be ranked based on academics, communicative ability, basic knowledge of radiography as a career option, work experience, and extracurricular activities. Six to eight candidates are accepted into the class each year; acceptance is conditional upon completion of all prerequisite UNBSJ courses with a grade of “C” or better.
• Qualified applicants not initially accepted may be placed on a limited waiting list. Horizon School of Radiography Saint John does not release an applicant’s position on the waiting list, and the waiting list does not carry-over from year to year. Unsuccessful applicants may re-apply the following year.
• Preference is given to students who complete their first-year studies at UNB or UNBSJ.

Tuition Fees

Tuition is paid to University of New Brunswick Saint John at the commencement of each semester of the Bachelor of Health Science degree.

Semesters at UNBSJ

Year 1 (Semesters 1 & 2),  Year 2 (Semester 2), and Year 3 (Semester 1): Tuition while enrolled in University of New Brunswick Saint John’s courses is outlined on  the University of New Brunswick website: www.unb.ca.

Semesters at HSRSJ

Year 2 (Semester 1), Year 3 (Semester 2), and Year 4 (Semesters 1 & 2): Tuition is paid at a rate of $1150 per semester to University of New Brunswick Saint John and forwarded to the HSRSJ as follows:

Additional Costs (all dollar amounts are in Canadian currency)

*These additional costs are paid at HSRSJ upon commencement of Year 2. The financial information listed above is subject to change.

Immunizations

All students are required to have the HSRSJ Student History & Physical form completed prior to commencement of the Radiography portion of the BHS. Students must be immunized against the following:

• Tetanus Diphtheria & Pertussis
• Measles/Mumps/Rubella (German measles)
• Varicella (Chicken Pox)
• Hepatitis B

A 2-step Mantoux (Tuberculosis) test is also required. These immunizations must be current and therefore boosted if necessary. Students are responsible for any fees associated with completing the Student Immunization form.

Vulnerable Sector Scan

At their own expense, students must provide a Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Scan before entering the radiography component of the degree in September of Year 2 of the BHS. These can be obtained from local police departments or any detachment of the RCMP.

Scholarships

Students may apply for University of New Brunswick scholarships through the ‘myUNB’ website. Scholarship opportunities are available through the CAMRT once students enter the radiography specific portion of their degree. Students entering their 4^th year may apply for the CAMRT Atlantic Student Scholarship.

What are the job opportunities for radiological technologists?

The employment rate among new graduates from HSRSJ is 100%. The majority of technologists work in the hospital setting. Employment conditions may include full-time, temporary full-time, part-time, temporary part-time and casual.

What salary can I expect as a Full-Time radiological technologist?

What related careers are available?

Graduates may complete a specialty certificate in CT, Mammography and/or Interventional Radiology via correspondence courses designated for these modalities.

Graduates may pursue careers in Magnetic Resonance Imaging or Ultrasound by completing a post-diploma program.

What qualities does a radiography student exhibit?

Applicants should be:

• organized
• team player
• adaptable
• dependable
• exceptional communicator
• ability to accept constructive feedback
• able to maintain a positive attitude while working under pressure
• able to stand for extended periods of time
• possess manual dexterity to manipulate controls and adjust hardware options
• capable of working with all types of patients, including pediatric, elderly, very ill and trauma patients
• capable of working in various environments outside of the imaging department, including the operating room, emergency room, patient units, and morgue

What does a typical day look like while in the radiography portion of the program?

Classroom day: 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., Monday to Friday
Clinical day: Various 8-hour shifts (Days, Evenings, Nights), including some weekends

Can I complete my studies part-time?

Students may complete 1st year studies at UNB on a part-time basis. However once in the radiography specific portion of the program, there is no option to complete studies part-time.

Where do I complete clinical placements?

Students complete the majority of their clinical practicums at the Saint John Regional Hospital (SJRH).  Students are also required to complete regular clinical rotations at St. Joseph’s Hospital (SJH), Sussex Health Center (SHC) and Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital (DECH). Graduating students also must complete a compulsory “Outreach Program” clinical week at another healthcare site within Horizon Health Network during the winter semester of year 4 at their own expense.

Should a tour of a medical imaging department be arranged?

A tour of a Medical Imaging department will allow prospective students to see first-hand the role of the radiological technologist within the health care field and can be very helpful when investigating radiography as a career option. An arranged tour with the Saint John Regional Hospital will allow the prospective student to spend time in the department with the Clinical Instructor, technologists and students presently in the program.

Meals

Meals are available at moderate prices at the Saint John Regional Hospital cafeteria, Second Cup, Pita Pit, and the hospital gift shop, as well as in the cafeterias of St. Joseph’s Hospital and the DECH.

Accommodations

The Horizon School of Radiography Saint John does not operate a residence. However, the school is in close proximity – a 5-minute walk – from the University of New Brunswick Saint John campus, which does operate a student residence and is accessible to students of HSRSJ. When completing clinical rotations at satellite clinical sites (SJH, SHC, DECH, and outreach placements), students are responsible for their own travel and accommodations as required.

Online Resources

• University of New Brunswick Saint John
• Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists
• New Brunswick Association of Medical Radiation Technologists
• CAMRT Promotional Video

For more information and/or clinical site tours please contact us

Email: Philip.Kennedy@HorizonNB.ca

Program Director
Tel.: 506-648-6006

Didactic Instructor
Tel.: 506-648-6007

Clinical Instructor
Tel.: 506-648-7411

Nursing and Health Sciences Coordinator
UNBSJ
Tel.: 506-648-5646