CT training refers to the educational programs, courses, clinical experience, software, and other tools used to educate aspiring and current CT technologists. With CT training, students can learn the fundamentals of this technology, practice their skills, and take assessments to evaluate their knowledge. Current CT professionals can use CT training tools to brush up on their skills and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field.
In the past, CT training was conducted in person, through a combination of classroom courses, clinical rotations, and scanner practice sessions. While this type of training is still in use (and highly valuable) today, a lot of CT training is now virtual, thanks to the rise of online courses and simulator software.
Concepts Covered in CT Training
The most effective CT training programs will cover a range of essential CT concepts and principles, including:
- Anatomy
- Angiography
- Artifacts
- Clinical procedures
- Parameters and trade-offs
- Pathology
- Patient preparation and care
- Safety
Who Needs CT Training?
High quality CT education and training are essential for people studying to become CT technologists, as well as professionals already working in the field of CT. Here are some of the ways that these groups use CT training.
For Aspiring CT Technologists
There are many different pathways to becoming a CT technologist. But regardless of how you enter the field, there are a few required steps you’ll need to take before beginning a career as a CT tech. Importantly, these steps include completing an accredited CT education program and earning certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Many students participate in virtual CT training, including online CT courses and CT simulator software, to prepare for their certification exam. Not only are these training tools convenient and easy to use, but they also include unlimited practice sessions — at any time and from any internet-connected computer.
For Current CT Technologists
Certified technologists can also use training to sharpen their skills and fulfill their continuing education (CE) requirements. In addition, many radiology facilities use CT software to maintain quality assurance and standardize processes across their organizations.
Technologists from other modalities (X-ray, MRI or Ultrasound) may also be interested in CT tech training to cross-train from their field into CT.
What is the Best CT Training Program?
Whether you’re an aspiring or current technologist, the best CT training program is one that provides a combination of self-led learning, scanning practice, and assessment opportunities. Many of the best CT technologist programs are also virtual so leaners can learn remotely at their own pace. For instance, when paired together, ImagingU and ScanLabCT, offer a comprehensive CT operator training program:
ImagingU: Online CT Education Courses
As the leading MRI and CT education platform, ImagingU’s online CT training courses are perfect for students preparing to take the CT registry and existing technologists looking to fulfill their CE obligations.
ImagingU’s courses are interactive and engaging, which helps learners grasp complex concepts and retain information. The material is presented in multiple formats as well (including animations, videos, slides, and text), so it appeals to students with different learning styles.
So, what’s covered? ImagingU’s CT Post-Primary Pathway course, which meets ARRT’s post-primary pathway requirements and offers 16.5 CE credits, includes the following modules:
- Introduction to CT
- Image Production
- Patient Care, Venipuncture, and Contrast Media in CT
- Radiation Safety and Dose in CT
- CT Procedures: Neuro
- CT Procedures: Chest
- CT Procedures: Abdomen and Pelvis
- CT Procedures: MSK
- CT Parameters and Their Impacts
- Legal Aspects and Patient Care
- Fundamental Concepts for CT Angiography
ScanLabCT: CT Simulator Software
ScanLab, an online simulator company, offers CT and MRI simulation. This software uses virtual reality to recreate the real-life scanning experience so technologists can practice and test their skills in a safe environment — without putting patient or tech safety at risk. Here are some of the other benefits:
- Unlimited practice opportunities – When learners practice on a real-life CT scanner, each training session is limited to the length of time that they’ve reserved the machine. But with CT simulation, they can practice as much as they’d like. If they’re having trouble in a particular area, they can review the material at their own pace and try again — without worrying about time constraints.
- Real-time skill assessment – As students prepare for the certification exam, it helps to understand their specific strengths and weaknesses to focus on areas that need improvement. ScanLab’s simulators come with real-time scoring and evaluation tools, so every learner can quickly pinpoint what they need to work on.
Learn More About CT Training
Today, CT operator training is much more than in-person education and clinical experience. Now, aspiring technologists have the freedom to learn, refine, and evaluate their skills from the convenience of a laptop, thanks to technology like ImagingU and ScanLabCT.
To request a quote or guided demo of these industry-leading software tools, get in touch today.