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Foundation
Flagship programme
Self-paced + live Q&A
6 weeks

CT Foundations

A structured introduction to computed tomography for radiographers preparing for, or newly entering, a CT rotation.

About this programme

CT Foundations is RadStart Academy's flagship programme. It works through the principles, anatomy, protocols, safety and workflow that underpin confident early CT practice, combining self-paced modules with scheduled live question-and-answer sessions. It is a professional development programme delivered by RadStart Academy and is not a formally accredited qualification.

What you will be able to do

  • Explain the physical principles behind CT image formation
  • Identify key cross-sectional anatomy on axial, coronal and sagittal reformats
  • Apply a systematic approach to CT image evaluation
  • Describe the components of a CT protocol and why they are chosen
  • Recognise contrast reactions and the immediate steps to take
  • Prepare confidently for a first CT rotation

Course structure

10 modules · 20 lessons · 6 hrs

  1. 1

    CT Principles

    How a CT image is actually produced, and why that matters at the console.

  2. 2

    Cross-sectional Anatomy

    Reading the body in slices — the shift every new CT radiographer has to make.

    • Thinking in slices25 min
    • Reformats and planes18 min
  3. 3

    CT Image Evaluation

    A repeatable system for judging whether a CT series is diagnostic.

    • A system for evaluation20 min
    • Recognising artefact18 min
  4. 4

    CT Protocol Foundations

    What sits inside a protocol and the reasoning behind each parameter.

    • Anatomy of a protocol25 min
    • Protocol selection in practice20 min
  5. 5

    Contrast Safety

    Contrast media, risk assessment, reactions and the immediate response.

    • Contrast media and risk22 min
    • Recognising and responding to reactions20 min
  6. 6

    Patient Preparation

    Preparing, positioning and communicating with the CT patient.

    • Preparing the CT patient18 min
    • Positioning and breath-hold16 min
  7. 7

    Radiation Protection

    Dose optimisation and justification in a CT context.

    • Justification and optimisation20 min
    • Dose metrics and DRLs18 min
  8. 8

    Clinical Workflow

    How a CT list runs, and where a new radiographer fits into it.

    • How a CT list runs15 min
    • Handover and documentation14 min
  9. 9

    CT Rotation Readiness

    Practical preparation for your first weeks in the CT department.

    • Your first two weeks15 min
    • Building competency evidence15 min
  10. 10

    Case-Based Learning

    Applying everything so far to realistic clinical scenarios.

    • Case: acute abdomen25 min
    • Case: trauma CT25 min