Module Information

Module Identifier
VN10900
Module Title
Principles of Diagnostic Techniques
Academic Year
2025/2026
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 1 (Taught over 2 semesters)
Reading List
Other Staff

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment 2 Hours   In class assessment  In class assessment with a combination of practical tasks and theory questions  50%
Semester Assessment Written report  1500 Words  50%
Supplementary Assessment 2 Hours   In class assessment  In class assessment with a combination of practical tasks and theory questions  50%
Supplementary Assessment Written report  1500 Words  50%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

Identify recognised methods for analysis of commonly obtained samples.

Explain the rationale of common tissue sampling strategies and appraise the role of the veterinary nurse in the preparation, undertaking and management of these.

Examine safe working practices in diagnostic procedures including preparation and use of equipment.

Examine image production principles for radiographic techniques including the set-up, undertaking and processing of images.

Analyse alternative imaging and diagnostic methods including ultrasound.

Explain suitable positioning of patients for diagnostic techniques with consideration of welfare and safety of both animals and staff.

Brief description

The aim of this module is to introduce principles and procedures of management of the practice laboratory. The module will introduce record keeping, health and safety, quality control and the use and maintenance of equipment. Patient care, sample collection, evaluation, storage and dispatch of a broad spectrum of laboratory procedures that veterinary nurses should be aware of will be included. The principles and procedures of diagnostic imaging including equipment, techniques, radiation safety, radiographic artefacts and patient care will be explored. A range of positions for a variety of views will be explored and alternative imaging techniques will be discussed.

Content

1. Laboratory and radiation health and safety
2. Management and use of laboratory equipment
3. Recording sample details and test reports
4. Collection and examination of samples
5. Principles of radiography
6. Effect of radiation
7. Taking of radiographs
8. Film processing
9. Radiographic quality and interpretation of images
10. Patient positioning
11. Contrast radiography
12. Alternative imaging techniques including ultrasound, CT, MRI, scintigraphy, endoscopy, ECG

The following RCVS Day One Skills (DOS) are covered within the content of this module:
2.8, 3.2, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9. 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6
The following RCVS Day One Competences (DOC) are covered within the content of this module:
1, 21, 22, 23, 24

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Creative Problem Solving Identification of potential challenges relating to radiation and health and safety in laboratories.
Professional communication Safely undertaking procedures in a group and clinical setting.
Subject Specific Skills Knowledge and skills relevant to veterinary diagnostics.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4