The Veterinary Nursing Department at Independence Community College (ICC) has made a significant advancement in patient care with the acquisition of the Midmark VetPro Complete Dental Digital Radiograph. Thanks to the support from the Kansas Industry and Labor Force Expansion Grant, this cutting-edge dental radiograph system will enable Veterinary Nurses to provide a Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT) for their patients, significantly improving their ability to address oral health issues effectively.
The addition of the digital radiograph system marks a transformative shift, empowering students to practice a more holistic approach to patient records, dental care, and client education.
"The dental radiograph system enriches our library of instructional radiographs, enabling students to gain more exposure as they work with an increasing number of patients. This immersive learning experience prepares them to excel in their career and provide the highest standard of patient care," said Maria Perez, Program Director.
The impact of this advanced radiology equipment extends throughout the curriculum, with students introduced to the physics of radiography and trained in producing radiographs. During their Principle of Anesthesiology labs and Veterinary Surgical Nursing labs, students will continue to hone their skills in using the dental radiograph system and identifying dental structures.
Moreover, with the implementation of the Vivix Flat Panel Detector for Digital Radiography, another equipment upgrade made possible by the Kansas Industry and Labor Force Expansion Grant, the Veterinary Nursing Department has further streamlined the radiography process. This digital system allows for nearly instantaneous capture and storage of radiographs, eliminating the time-consuming process of using cassettes and readers for digitization.
The new digital panel offers numerous advantages to students, including increased lab time for developing skills in positioning, exposing, and reading radiographs. This upgrade reduces stress and enhances the learning experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared to handle similar systems during their summer externships and future careers.
"By investing in advanced radiological technology, we are committed to providing the best possible education and training to our Veterinary Nursing students. The upgraded digital system reflects the gold standard in radiography, reinforcing ICC's dedication to excellence in veterinary education," concluded Perez.
This forward-thinking approach aligns with ICC's mission to foster skilled and compassionate Veterinary Nurses who are prepared to excel in the field. The enhanced radiology equipment not only elevates the educational experience but also enables students to pursue specialized credentials, such as a Veterinary Technician Specialty (VTS) in Dentistry, setting the stage for their professional growth and development.