PDA in Dental Radiography (Operator) for DCPs
The Professional Development Award (PDA) in Dental Radiography: Operator at SCQF level 9 is for registered dental nurses who will be acting as operators working with x-ray generating equipment. It will develop the candidates’ skills and knowledge as they expose patients to ionising radiation taking a range of radiographs requested of them by a registered dental practitioner(s).
Course Prospectus
e-Learning Modules
These resources have been designed to support your learning for the PDA in Dental Radiography (Operator). By clicking on each of the boxes you will find a range of micro learning modules and SWAY related to your learning programme. Your course educator will advise you where these fit into your timetable and assessment planning.
These resources are not monitored but you will require to access them to allow you to engage with your learning programme, you may need to view in advance of your tutorial, they will also support your revision and knowledge checking.
From 1 October 2024, the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2017 (IR(ME)R) have been amended by the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) (Amendment) Regulations 2024. All references to IR(ME)R within these modules should be interpreted as inclusive of this amendment.”
Assessment
Dental radiography : Quality assurance audits
Learning Aims:
This learning resource will equip learners with the knowledge and skills to undertake the necessary steps for Quality Assurance of Radiographs.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this bite sized module you will be able to: - Apply a range of Quality Assurance methods to review and improve the quality of dental radiographic images - Describe the Quality Assurance activities that should be included in a Clinical Audit
Legislation and Guidance
Dental radiography : IR(ME)R2024
Learning Aims:
This learning resource will cover Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) (Amendment) Regulation 2024
Learning Outcomes:
By the end this bite sized module you will be able to: - This learning resource will cover Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) (Amendment) Regulation 2024 - Identify the requirements of a radiation protection file
Dental radiography : IRR17 and IR(ME)R2024 key roles and responsibilities
Learning Aims:
The aim of this module is to deliver knowledge of the following legislation and how it applies to you in clinical practice.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this bite sized module you will be able to: - Define key roles and responsibilities in accordance with IRR2017 and IR(ME)R2024 - Explain the importance of implementation of Local Rules in your clinical practice
Dental radiography : Health and safety general principles
Learning Aims:
This learning resource will cover health and safety general principles.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this bite sized module you will be able to: - Define health and safety requirements and responsibilities - Describe dosimetry monitoring and it's purpose - Use radiation protective devices correctly
Physics of Radiation
Sway and other resources to be added
Practical Elements of Taking Radiographs
Dental radiography : Principles of radiation protection
Learning Aims:
This learning resource will cover Radiation Protection Principles.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end this bite sized module you will be able to: - Define and identify the core principles: justification, optimisation and limitation - Recognise the importance of clinical judgement to protect patients and staff
Dental radiography : Optimisation and justification
Learning Aims:
This learning resource will cover Optimisation and Justification Principles.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end this bite sized module you will be able to: - Apply ALARP (Optimisation) - Justify each radiograph based on patient specific factors
Dental radiography : Patient identification
Learning Aims:
This learning resource will cover the required information needed for patient consent, identification and ethical considerations.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this bite sized module you will be able to: - Check and confirm patient identity - Obtain valid informed consent - Review previous radiographs and confirm justification for further radiographs
Radiographic Techniques
Dental radiography : Safely use equipment required for radiation procedures
Learning Aims:
Learners will be able to safely provide radiographs for patients within a clinical environment.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this bite sized module you will be able to: - Identify the key features of equipment used in dental intraoral imaging - Determine operational parameters that ensures safety
Dental radiography : Image receptors and processing safety requirements
Learning Aims:
The learner will be able to manage health and safety and safe handling practices for dental radiography equipment to optimise image quality and patient safety.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this bite sized module you will be able to: - Describe the types, benefits and drawback of image receptors used in periapical, bitewing and occlusal radiography techniques. - Describe quality assurance procedures related to image receptors and processing. - Understand proper processing, handling, storage, and disposal procedures to ensure safety.
Dental radiography : Bitewing radiographs and aiming devices
Learning Aims:
The learner will be able to select and set up the correct aiming device for the required radiograph.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this bite sized module you will be able to: - Identify the appropriate aiming device for a bitewing radiograph - Set patient up for a bitewing radiograph and take image
Video Resources
Radiography Competency Video Showcase
A collection of short videos that will provide guidance and support when completing your practical competency assessments. These videos should be used for reference, in addition to your study days and clinical demonstrations by by your supervising GDC registered Dentist.
These resources are password protected and only available to candidates currently undertaking the NES post registration programme.
Course Dates and Instructions for Course booking
No course currently being offered – contact your Local Dental Education Centre
Contact Us
For any queries please email: dcp.hub@nes.scot.nhs.uk