Loraine (Lorie) D. Zelna, M.S., R.T. (R)(MR), department chair and associate professor of medical imaging (MI) at Misericordia University, wrote an article on student safety in medical imaging education that was published in the May/June 2016 issue of Radiologic Technology.

The article, "Ensuring Student Safety in Magnetic Resonance Educational Programs," addresses the hazards and precautions that must be made when working in a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) environment. The article discusses safe practices and improved accountability, as outlined by the American College of Radiology and The Joint Commission.

Zelna, a resident of Falls, earned her Master of Science degree in educational technology from Misericordia University in 1995. She completed her undergraduate studies in radiography education at Bloomsburg University, Bloomsburg, in 1987, after successfully completing her Radiography Certificate Program training at Polyclinic Medical Center, Harrisburg, in 1985. Zelna has a diverse background in medical imaging, including radiography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. She is an active member of the radiologic sciences profession.

Zelna is currently serving a term on the Board of Directors of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiological Technology, the only agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for accreditation of traditional and distance delivery programs in radiography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance and medical dosimetry. In addition to her role as MI program chairperson, she continues to teach a class on radiographic procedures and the accompanying lab, which includes a service-leaning component.

The Misericordia University Medical Imaging Program is accredited by JRCERT and the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Based on a five-year average, December 2010-May 2015, students in the program have attained a pass rate of 97.5 percent on their first attempt of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam.