Radiation Safety, Preventive Maintenance & Field Service

Syllabus

# MAM 110 - Radiation Safety, Preventive Maintenance & Field Service

## Course Description
MAM 110 provides essential training for safely maintaining mammography equipment. Students will master radiation dose measurement techniques, ensuring patient and technician safety. The course covers comprehensive compression force testing, vital for image quality and patient comfort. Emphasis is placed on developing robust preventive maintenance schedules and understanding meticulous service documentation protocols. Hands-on labs simulate field service scenarios, preparing technicians for real-world challenges. The curriculum integrates a thorough review of key concepts, culminating in preparation for certification examinations, ensuring graduates are competent and compliant with industry standards. This course is crucial for ensuring the reliability and safety of mammography systems.

## Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
*   Accurately measure and interpret radiation dose outputs from mammography systems.
*   Perform comprehensive compression force tests and adjustments according to regulatory standards.
*   Develop and implement effective preventive maintenance schedules for mammography equipment.
*   Complete and maintain precise service documentation, including calibration records and repair logs.
*   Identify and troubleshoot common mammography system malfunctions through simulated field service procedures.
*   Apply safety protocols and regulatory compliance standards relevant to mammography equipment service.

## Topics by Week
*   **Week 1:** Introduction to Mammography Systems and Radiation Safety Principles
*   **Week 2:** Radiation Dose Measurement and Instrumentation
*   **Week 3:** Understanding Mammography Image Quality and Factors Affecting It
*   **Week 4:** Compression System Mechanics and Operation
*   **Week 5:** Compression Force Testing Procedures and Calibration (Lab)
*   **Week 6:** Preventive Maintenance Fundamentals for Medical Imaging Equipment
*   **Week 7:** Developing Mammography PM Schedules and Checklists
*   **Week 8:** Service Documentation and Regulatory Compliance
*   **Week 9:** Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques for Mammography Systems (Lab)
*   **Week 10:** Environmental and Electrical Safety in the Field (Assignment)
*   **Week 11:** Quality Control and Assurance Protocols for Mammography (Lab)
*   **Week 12:** Field Service Simulation: Comprehensive PM Execution (Lab)
*   **Week 13:** Midterm Review and Certification Exam Preparation
*   **Week 14:** Final Exam Review and Case Studies

## Grading
*   Knowledge Checks: 15%
*   Assignments and Labs: 30%
*   Quizzes: 25%
*   Final Exam: 30%

## Policies
*   **Attendance:** Regular attendance in virtual lectures and active participation in labs are expected.
*   **Late Submissions:** Late assignments may incur a penalty of 10% per day, up to a maximum of 50%.
*   **Academic Integrity:** All work submitted must be original. Plagiarism or cheating will result in severe academic penalties.
*   **Safety:** Adherence to all safety protocols during lab exercises and simulated field service is mandatory.
*   **Communication:** Students are encouraged to communicate with the instructor regarding any challenges or questions. Email is the preferred method of contact.