Riverland Community College

This is an introductory college writing course designed to help students develop effective writing skills for college level work.  Students learn to generate ideas and organize them into unified, coherent essays.  Methods of instruction vary, but most sections combine individual conferences and peer review with regular class meetings.  Prerequisites:  A grade of C or higher in ENGL 0960 or appropriate placement score.

MnTC (Goals 1/CM and Goal 2/CT); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course explores human growth and development from the prenatal through adult life stages, including aging and death.  Students will examine the interaction between genetics and environment on the individual’s physical, cognitive, and socioemotional development. In addition, family, culture and cohort influences will be explored.

MnTC (Goal 5/SS and Goal 9/EC); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course provides an overview of central issues in medical ethics. Students investigate the nature of ethics and ethical theories and principles before moving on to examine such topics as medical research and technological developments in medicine. The course will provide both historical and contemporary background on a number of ethical issues in the health-care field and will consider proposed answers to what we should do about the questions they raise. Course delivery may include the presentation and discussion of various ethical and health-care perspectives. MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 9/EC); (3 credits - 3 lecture, 0 lab)

Riverland Community College is an approved Nursing Assistant training program through the Minnesota Department of Health. This 4-credit course provides students with the theory, laboratory, and clinical experience to meet state and federal criteria for employment as a nursing assistant in a nursing home or other long term care facility. Completion of this course enables the student to take the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. After successfully completing the competency evaluation, the student will be placed on the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry.
(4 Cr – 2.75 lect, 1.25 lab, 0 other)

This course focuses on communicating more effectively in personal, social, and professional environments and examining the practical and theoretical aspects of human communication. The course also addresses such topics as self-esteem, listening, effective language, nonverbal communication, perception, disclosure, conflict and cultural communication. Human diversity issues and cultural/intercultural factors and how they affect human communication are examined. Students will also reflect on the role interpersonal process plays in relationships and reflect on individual strengths and weaknesses with regard to personal interpersonal communication.

• MnTC (Goals 1/CM 7A/HD);
• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course is an introductory study of human biology. The scientific method, biological molecules, and cell biology will be studied as a foundation to learning human histology (the study of tissues) and organ systems. Each human organ system will be investigated to develop an understanding of its contribution to the human body. Current health and social issues, and other diseases related to human biology, will also be studied.

MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 2/CT); (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab)

This course is an introductory study of the skeletal system. Students will be introduced to the terminology and anatomy related to the axial and appendicular skeletal system, bone features, bone development, bone classifications, associated fractures, and joints. This is a prerequisite course of the Radiography program, which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Prerequisites: Human Biology, BIOL1030.

(3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course will introduce the student to the profession of Radiologic Technology.  Students will learn about the organization of health-care facilities and in particular the radiology department.  Understanding role of the Radiologic Technologist in healthcare will be emphasized.  The professional obligations and behaviors of health-care workers will be discussed.  Radiography education programs, curriculum, and certification will also be discussed.  A goal of this course is to generate interest in becoming a radiologic technologist. 

 (1 Cr - 1 lect, 0 lab)

This course introduces the student to the origins of medical terminology. A word building system is introduced and abbreviations and symbols are discussed. The course covers the concepts of disease and its effects on the human body. The pathophysiology and radiographic manifestations of common and unusual disorders for each of the body systems are discussed. An orientation to the understanding of radiographic orders and interpretation of diagnostic reports is discussed. This course provides the knowledge and skills to adjust technical factors for obtaining optimal quality images in patients with various underlying pathologic conditions. This is a prerequisite course of the Radiography program, which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). (2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

This course is the first of four radiographic procedures courses. The student is introduced to the basic terminology for positioning, the radiographic equipment, and operations. General anatomy is introduced, and specific positioning procedures of the chest, abdomen, upper limb, shoulder girdle, and lower limb. Considerations for the pediatric and geriatric patient are also covered. Mobile and surgical imaging is presented. Radiation safety and protection for the technologist and patient are stressed. Radiographs are evaluated for anatomy and positioning. Prerequisites: Admission to the Radiography Program. This course is part of the Radiography program, which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (4 Cr – 2 lect, 2 lab)

This course is an introduction to the profession of radiologic technology and has a major emphasis on patient care skills. The student acquires appropriate knowledge and skills in radiography, ethical and legal issues, human diversity, and basic patient care. Prerequisites: Admission into the Radiography Program. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course is the first of four practicum education courses. The student is assigned to the practicum site for sixteen (16) hours per week. Under the supervision of a practicum instructor, the student gains competency in radiography of the chest, abdomen, upper limb, shoulder girdle, and lower limb, including for pediatric and geriatric patients. The student practices skills and demonstrates competency in radiographic processing, patient care, radiation protection, and general radiographic procedures and image critique. The student demonstrates professional interactions and work ethics in the practicum setting. The radiography program staff monitors progress and performance evaluations. The students will participate in on-line discussions to gain knowledge of the different practicum sites and experiences. The student will maintain appropriate records: timekeeping, competency log, and evaluations. Prerequisites: Admission to the Radiography Program. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (6 Cr – 0 lect, 6 off-campus lab)

This course covers radiographic procedures of the pelvic girdle, complete vertebral column, and bony thorax. Trauma guidelines, including pediatric and geriatric patient considerations, are presented. Emphasis will be on anatomy, positioning, radiographic terms, manipulation of radiographic equipment and accessories, and related patient care considerations. Radiographs are evaluated for anatomy and positioning. Skills acquired in Procedures I are maintained.

• Prerequisites: RADT 1281, RADT 1210, RADT 1231.

• This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (4 Cr – 2 lect, 2 lab)

This course provides the student with the knowledge of factors that govern and influence image quality. Topics include history of radiography, basic physics concepts, electromagnetic radiation, radiographic equipment, properties of x-rays, exposure factors, digital radiography, radiographic devices, and Automatic Exposure Control (AEC). The application of radiographic calculations is applied during presentation of the course material. Prerequisites: RADT 1210, RADT 1231, RADT 1281. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course is the second of four practicum education courses. The student is assigned to the practicum site for sixteen (16) hours per week. Under the supervision of a practicum instructor, the student achieves performance competency in radiography of the pelvic girdle, complete vertebral column, and bony thorax. Experience with pediatric and trauma patients is required. The student continues to demonstrate competencies from Practicum I, as well as be evaluated for competency on any procedures still needed from that course. Participation in surgical, bedside, and special procedures is monitored. The student improves skills in radiographic processing, patient care, radiation protection, and general radiographic procedures and image critique. The student demonstrates professional interactions and work ethics in the practicum setting. The radiography program staff monitors progress and performance evaluations. The student will maintain appropriate: timekeeping, competency log, and evaluations.

• Prerequisites: RADT 1210, RADT 1231, RADT 1281.

• This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (6 Cr – 0 lect, 6 off-campus lab)

This course provides the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform radiographic examinations of those systems needing oral or intravenous contrast agents, such as the biliary system, digestive system, and the urinary system. This includes the anatomy and positioning and also the examination protocols. Images are evaluated for anatomy and positioning. There is a review of all anatomy and positioning previously studied, especially those areas identified by students as needing clarification.

• Prerequisites: RADT 1260, RADT 1235, RADT 2283.

• This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

This course focuses on image quality by considering factors that affect brightness, contrast, recorded detail, and distortion. Digital image processing, image storage, and management are discussed, as well as x-ray interactions with matter are discussed. Mathematical problems that reflect the effect of change in exposure factors and radiographic devices on image quality will be calculated.

• Prerequisites: RADT 1260, RADT 1235, RADT 2283.

• This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course provides students with the knowledge needed to evaluate radiographic examinations and to identify and recognize diagnostic quality. Students will evaluate and critique case studies and complete critique projects while at practicum, using their own images, for positioning and technique. Images are evaluated for adequate technical preparation, proper use of equipment, careful radiography of the anatomical part, and the accept/reject analysis. Prerequisites: RADT 1260, RADT 1235, RADT 2283. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

This final procedures course provides the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform radiographic examinations of the skull, facial bones, and paranasal sinuses including not only the anatomy and positioning but also the examination protocols. Sectional anatomy of the head, thorax, and abdominopelvic area are introduced. Radiographs are evaluated for anatomy and positioning. There is a review of all anatomy and positioning previously studied, especially those areas identified by students as needing clarification.

• Prerequisites: RADT 2239, RADT 2261, RADT 2215.

• This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (2 Cr – 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course provides the student with an overview of the principles of the interaction of radiation with the human body as well as the principles of radiation protection.  Radiation effects on biological molecules and organism, as well as factors affecting biological response, are explored.  Discussion includes both acute and chronic effects of radiation.  Radiation protection responsibilities of the radiographer for patients, personnel, and the public are presented.  Prerequisites: RADT 2215, 2283. Co-requisites: RADT 2239, 2240.  This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

      (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab) 

This course is the first of two courses to review basic knowledge from previous courses to help the student prepare for the ARRT board examination. Topics include: image analysis, image production and evaluation; digital radiography; radiographic procedures; anatomy, pathology, and terminology; patient care. Also included in the course is resume building and interview skills. Mock board exams will be included throughout the course covering each of the categories included on the board exam.

• Prerequisites: RADT 2215, RADT 2239, RADT 2261.

• This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (1 Cr – 1 lect, 0 lab)

This course is the third of four radiography practicum education courses. The student is assigned to the practicum site for twenty-four (24) hours per week. The student maintains competencies from both prior practicum education courses and performs competency evaluations on any procedures still needed from either course. Involvement in specialty areas is encouraged as time allows. The student demonstrates increased proficiency, accuracy, and speed in the radiographic procedures. Critical thinking and problem solving are expected. The student demonstrates professional interactions and work ethics in the practicum setting. The radiography program staff monitors progress and performance evaluations. The student will maintain appropriate timekeeping, competency log, and evaluations.

• Prerequisites: RADT 2239, RADT 2261, RADT 2215.

• This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (7 Cr – 0 lect, 0 lab, 7 off campus lab)

This course introduces the student to the equipment, procedures, and technologies routinely used for specialized imaging procedures. Various recording media and techniques, as well as specialized imaging equipment are described. Characteristic appearance of anatomical structures is presented for the various imaging modalities. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• Prerequisites: RADT 2220, RADT 2240, RADT 2287, RADT 2242.

• (2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

This course is the second of two courses to review basic knowledge from previous courses to help the student prepare for the ARRT board examination. Topics include: image analysis, image production and evaluation; digital radiography; radiographic procedures; anatomy, pathology, and terminology; patient care. Also included in the course is resume building and interview skills. Mock board exams will be included throughout the course covering each of the categories included on the board exam.

• Prerequisites: RADT 2220, RADT 2240, RADT 2242, RADT 2287.

• This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course is the final radiography practicum education course. The student is assigned to the practicum site for twenty-four (24) hours per week. The student demonstrates performance competency in radiographic examinations of the skull, facial bones, and paranasal sinuses. The student maintains competencies from all prior practicum education courses and performs competency evaluations on any procedures still needed. Involvement in specialty areas is encouraged as time allows. The student demonstrates increased proficiency, accuracy, and speed in the radiographic procedures. Critical thinking and problem solving are expected. The student demonstrates professional interactions and work ethics in the practicum setting. The radiography program staff monitors progress and performance evaluations. The student will maintain appropriate timekeeping, competency log, and evaluations.

• Prerequisites: RADT 2242, RADT 2220, RADT 2287, RADT 2240.
• This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
• (7 Cr – 0 lect, 0 lab, 7 off campus lab)