Students visit radiology department at Watford Hospital

Doctors, nurses and other staff from Watford Hospital were able to bring science to life for sixth form students from a local school when they visited the radiology department at the hospital last week. The radiology team use x-rays and high-energy radiation to diagnose and treat disease. The A-level students, who are currently studying medical physics, got to learn more about how x-rays are performed and the type of equipment that is used.  This included a CT (computed tomography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and ultrasound scanner. The students visited on March 17 and were given an insight into some of the science behind the technology and how health and safety legislation is applied to protect patients and staff from being harmed by the radiation which is emitted from the scanners. Dr Daniel Boxer is a consultant radiologist (a specialist who uses radioactive substances and x-rays in the treatment of disease) at Watford Hospital. He said: “It was a real pleasure to show the students around our radiology department. They were very enthusiastic and interested in the areas they visited. “Diagnostic imaging is now a central part of the modern diagnosis and treatment of patients with most conditions.  This visit was a great opportunity to show the students the wide variety of equipment we have available and to give them an opportunity to gather information for their studies.” Dr Beccy Dawber is the physics teacher who accompanied the students on their visit from Wycombe Abbey School, High Wycombe. She said: “The radiology department organised a fantastic visit and the students really enjoyed their trip, which was both educational and fun. “I’d like to thank the staff for giving up their time. It was a really interesting and beneficial afternoon and we hope to bring another set of students next year!” For more information visit www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk, twitter.com/westhertsNHS or on Facebook facebook.com/westhertsNHS.