About this course
This comprehensive annual refresher course is designed specifically for UK dental nurses without a radiography qualification, focusing on the vital aspects of radiation safety and exposure activation. It provides essential knowledge to protect both patients and dental staff from unnecessary ionising radiation exposure.
Our course looks into the principles of radiation protection, regulatory guidelines, and the specific responsibilities of dental nurses during radiographic procedures. You will learn how to expose radiographs safely under supervision, ensuring compliance with the national Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations (IRMER).
The ability to assist safely in radiographic procedures is very important for dental nurses. This course offers a thorough exploration of radiation safety protocols, equipping you with the skills to maintain a safe clinical environment and effectively support your supervising clinician.
This course is relevant to dentists, nurses, hygienists, therapists, and other dental care professionals.
CPD Time: 1 hours (1 CPD Credit)
Customer feedback on this course
- The course was comprehensive and well-organised, making it easy to understand radiation safety protocols.
- I feel much more confident in supporting radiographic procedures safely and efficiently.
- The practical guidelines and checklists provided were invaluable for applying the learning in real practice.
- The course content was relevant and directly applicable to my daily responsibilities as a dental nurse.
- Great emphasis on safety and compliance, which has improved my awareness and adherence to safety protocols.
Assessment: 12 MCQs. Pass mark 75%. more…
On passing the assessment you will immediately receive a GDC-recognised Enhanced CPD Certificate.
Aim:
To equip dental nurses with essential knowledge and skills in radiation safety and exposure activation under supervision.
Course Objectives:
• Understand fundamental principles of radiation safety.
• Learn procedural protocols for exposure activation under supervision.
Anticipated Learning Outcomes:
• Explain the principles of Justification, Optimisation, and Limitation in radiography.
• Identify the responsibilities of dental nurses in radiographic procedures.
• Apply safety protocols for exposure activation effectively.
• Demonstrate understanding of local rules and emergency procedures.
• Maintain a safe and compliant radiographic environment.
GDC Development Outcome: C
Learning content:
Introduction to Radiation Safety in Dental Practice | Understanding Justification, Optimisation, and Limitation | Basic Physics and Biological Effects of Ionising Radiation | Role of the Dental Nurse in Radiographic Procedures | Local Rules and Safe Practice Protocols | Exposure Activation Protocols and Best Practices | Responding to Radiation Safety Incidents | Summary and Key Takeaways
View full course description
Radiation Safety and Exposure Activation
Course Description
Introduction to Radiation Safety in Dental Practice
This section emphasises the importance of radiation safety in dental practices to protect patients and staff from unnecessary ionising radiation exposure. While dental nurses may not have radiography qualifications, understanding radiation protocols is very important for promoting a safe clinical environment.
Key Principles of Radiation Protection
Introduction to the principles of Justification, Optimisation, and Limitation in dental radiography. These principles guide safe practices and regulatory compliance in minimising radiation exposure for patients and staff.
Regulatory Context: IRMER and Dental Nurse Responsibilities
Covers the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations (IRMER) and the roles of dental nurses in supporting radiographic procedures under supervision, highlighting responsibilities for exposure activation and adherence to local safety protocols.
Understanding Justification, Optimisation, and Limitation
In-depth exploration of the fundamental radiation protection principles of Justification, Optimisation, and Limitation, detailing the roles dental nurses can play in supporting safe radiographic practices through these principles.
Basic Physics and Biological Effects of Ionising Radiation
Explanation of the basic physics behind X-ray production and the biological effects of ionising radiation on tissues. The section highlights the importance of minimising exposure to protect both patients and staff.
Role of the Dental Nurse in Radiographic Procedures
Outlines the specific tasks and responsibilities dental nurses undertake during radiographic procedures, including patient positioning, exposure activation, and compliance with IRMER under supervision.
Local Rules and Safe Practice Protocols
Discusses the importance of local radiation safety rules and protocols in ensuring compliance and safety in dental practices. It articulates the dental nurse's role in understanding and following these rules.
Exposure Activation Protocols and Best Practices
Provides detailed guidelines for safe exposure activation, ensuring both procedural compliance and the minimisation of radiation risks during dental radiographic procedures.
Responding to Radiation Safety Incidents
Describes common radiation safety incidents and the appropriate responses for dental nurses. The section includes practical steps and emergency procedures, such as using the isolator switch.
Summary and Key Takeaways
Summarises the core principles and responsibilities of radiation safety for dental nurses. It includes a checklist to document training outcomes and ensure understanding of critical safety practices.