DCP Radiography and Radiation Protection

Course Content

As from August 2008 ALL DCPs (Dental Care Professionals, which includes dental nurses and part time dental nurses) in line with the compulsory registration will be required by the GDC to complete and record 150 hours of CPD (Continuing Professional Development) every five years, a third (50 hours) of which should be verifiable.

The GDC recommend that DCPs study the same verifiable core subjects as dentists in every five year cycle. One of the core subjects is Radiography and Radiation Protection. DCPs are required to achieve 5 hours verifiable CPD in a 5 year period. The course is for all members of the dental team who are not taking X-Rays. It is particularly relevant to nurses involved with processing the films and carrying out the regular quality assurance tests. The course is on the same day and at the same venue as the Radiography Update Course for Dentists (and those DCPs who hold a radiography qualification) therefore making it convenient for all of the practice to attend together reducing surgery disruption and down time.

The key areas covered:

• The nature and effects of radiation
• Radiation doses
• Image formation and capture
• Film handling and processing
• Processor use, maintenance and care
• Processing film faults
• Risk assessment and practical radiation safety

6 hours verifiable CPD.