This course covers foundational concepts in rational ordering and interpretation of chest x-rays, aimed at primary healthcare clinicians.


About the course

Course Design:
Self-directed. 


Duration: 
It will take no more than 3 hours to complete. 


Eligibility for this course: 

  • The following professionals
    • Primary care nurse specialists
    • Physiotherapists
    • Doctors
  • Must be registered with the relevant professional council (SANC, HPCSA etc)
  • Working in Western Cape


Certification: 
Participants need 70% pass mark for final quiz in order to receive a certificate.


Accreditation: 
3 general CEUs on Level 1,  according to HPCSA guidelines.


Published: 
October 2024

Course curriculum

The following content is covered in this course:

1. Introduction

  • Principles of radiography and radiation safety
  • Technical aspects of chest x-ray images
  • Overview of thoracic anatomy

2. Ordering chest x-rays

  • Indications for chest x-rays
  • Completion of the x-ray request form
  • Rational follow-up planning

3. Interpreting chest x-rays

  • Systematic approach to interpretation
  • Radiographic terminology  for describing abnormal findings

4. Lung infections

  • Recognition of common patterns in pneumonia and tuberculosis

5. Other common conditions

  • Recognition of common patterns in heart failure and trauma
  • Recognition of lung masses, nodules and atelectasis

6. Case demonstrations

  • Discussions in fictional example cases

This course was developed by the Knowledge Translation Unit (KTU) of the University of Cape Town and The Health Foundation South Africa (THF).