POD405 Diagnostic Sciences for Podiatric Practice (8)

This subject explores the use of diagnostic imaging and diagnostic investigations in podiatric practice. A study of diagnostic science includes ionising and non-ionising imaging modalities; students develop skills in the appropriate use of diagnostic imaging in the management of lower limb pathology. This subject enables students to interpret X-rays and to evaluate images from other sources e.g. MRI, to a limited degree. A range of laboratory and physical assessment techniques - including vascular and neurological assessments -are also considered, with a focus on 'point of care' testing.

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2022.

Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Allied Health, Exercise and Sport Sciences

Incompatible Subjects

POD314

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to discuss the history, development and current technology of diagnostic imaging, including: X-ray; ultrasound; MRI; scintigraphy; CT etc.;
  • be able to describe the medico-legal implications of advanced assessment techniques and the role of the Radiation Health and Safety Advisory Council;
  • be able to demonstrate the ability to request appropriate diagnostic investigations in relation to lower limb pathology;
  • be able to demonstrate accurate interpretation of a range of diagnostic images relevant to podiatric practice;
  • be able to demonstrate the ability to establish a podiatric diagnosis through appropriate assessment and use of diagnostic investigations;
  • be able to justify 'point of care' testing in the context of podiatric practice;
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of relevant advanced physiological testing, including vascular and neurological techniques;
  • be able to demonstrate the ability to conduct tests relevant to podiatric practice and correctly interpret results;
  • be able to demonstrate the ability to appropriately order and interpret results from pathological specimens, including blood, urine, tissue, and other body fluids;
  • be able to critically analyse issues relevant to the use of diagnostic investigations and point of care testing in podiatric practice.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Exploring the diagnostic phenomenon: understanding the philosophy and practice of differential diagnosis, and constructing and testing diagnostic hypotheses
  • Pain as an indicator of underlying pathology
  • Implications of pain in the use of diagnostic imaging
  • Radiographic and imaging sciences
  • Review of physics and radiographic anatomy
  • Clinical indications and contraindications for the use of ionising and non-ionising imaging techniques
  • Principles of client positioning for imaging
  • Methods of measurement using diagnostic images
  • Pathology: requesting and interpreting pathological tests for blood and urine specimens, to assist in the diagnosis and management of conditions commonly encountered in podiatric practice
  • Acquiring tissue samples - joint aspiration and skin biopsy - and interpretation of pathology reports
  • Interpretation and identification of pathologies and variants arising from: arthropathies; trauma; vascular disease; haematological disorders; infection; endocrine and metabolic disorders;
  • Advanced vascular testing: duplex doppler scanning, vasculography, plethysmography, laser doppler, electrocardiography.
  • Advanced neurological testing: quantitative neurological testing, nerve conduction studies etc.
  • Point of care testing: conducting tests and interpreting results including; vascular (HbA1c, blood glucose, total plasma cholesterol etc.); neurological (Biothesiometer, neuropad etc.); urinalysis (dipstick) and others e.g. faecal occult blood testing

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of POD405 in Session 1 2020. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Prescription interpretation and diagnosis tasks
0
2
Online case scenario 1
50
3
Online case scenario 2
50

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

Back