Quality Assurance/Quality Control Chapter 10

Quality Assurance Definition A system of activities whose purpose is to provide assurance that the overall quality control job is in fact being done effectively. The system involves a continuing education on the adequacy and effectiveness of the overall quality control program and initiates corrective measures where necessary.

Activities of the Quality Assurance Program Include: Preventative maintenance Quality Control Equipment calibration In-service education of personnel responsible for radiography Other items such as the evaluation of new products

Quality Control Definition The overall system of activities, the purpose of which is to provide a quality product or service that meets the need of the users. The aim of quality control is to provide quality that is satisfactory, adequate, dependable, and economic.

Purpose of Quality Assurance/ Quality Control Provides way to minimize the dose of radiation to patient and staff. Allows production of a quality radiograph. Leads to decreased number of repeated films Cost effective/safe

Technician’s Role Will be responsible for doing quality control tests. Interpreting data. Keeping of records. Technician will measure, plot and analyze data.

Equipment Equipment needs will vary based on the clinic setting. Equipment may include: Tracking charts Tape measure or other measuring device Thermometer Level

Types of Quality Control Tests that can be done Source-Image Distance Test Ensures accuracy of the SID Measure length Perpendicularity Ensures x-ray beam is properly centered Use Level Tube/Table/Crane Locks Check function of locks to make sure working

Tests continued X-ray Field Light Make sure light on x-ray machine can be seen with normal lights in room on. Light Field Size Make sure collimator dials are consistent with light field displayed Collimator/Cones/Diaphragms Used when collimator light is not available, verify sizes

Tests continued Locks/Cables/Overhead Crane Movement Ensure adequate locking of crane so doesn’t “drift” during radiographs Angulation Indicator Ensure angle indicator is correct when using angulation of x-ray tube. View Box uniformity Make sure light is even throughout view box

Tests continued Light Field/X-ray Field Alignment Ensures x-ray field is actually going where the light field indicates Screen Film Contact Ensures that screens are securely in cassette. Uniformity of Screen Speed Determines if screens have lost speed through wear and tear.

Tests Continued Calibration Tests Must be performed by a professional. Should be done annually. Fog Test Assesses if unwanted fog is being added to radiograph during processing. Sensitometry and Densitometry Ensures that processing of radiographs is optimized. Tests the processing procedure.