Course description

Description:

Since September 2013, when the GDC published its new Scope of practice guidance for dental professionals, dental hygienists and dental therapists have been able to undertake additional tasks if ‘trained, competent and indemnified’ to do so. The first is to ‘prescribe radiographs’ and the second is to ‘interpret various film views used in general dental practice’. This CPD course aimed at qualified dental hygienists and dental therapists will adequately train them to take on duties relating to referral for radiography, justification of X-ray examinations, selection of appropriate radiographs and clinical evaluation (reporting) of images. The course is also suitable for hygienists and therapists wishing to keep up-to-date with new developments or requirements. For those registrants new to prescribing radiographs, they will need to complete a portfolio of ten case studies in the following six months. This must include a reflective account. Information about compiling the portfolio of evidence will be provided during the course. Attending this CPD activity will contribute towards IR(ME)R operators’ and practitioners’ life-long learning and the hours requirement of verifiable CPD.

Aims:

To educate and train dental hygienists and dental therapists in duties relating to the referral for radiography, justification of X-ray examinations, selection of appropriate radiographs and reporting of images.

Objectives:

1. To discuss the requirements of IR(ME)R.

2. To consider selection criteria for radiography.

3. To provide training in image analysis.

4. To explore the requirements of quality assurance systems, medico-legal dental radiology, record keeping and clinical audit.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Recognise statutory responsibilities.

2. Summarise the principles of justification, authorisation and optimisation in dental radiology.

3. Formulate a radiographic interpretation.

4. Implement a quality assurance programme.

Development Outcomes: B,C,D