A novel e-learning tool to improve knowledge and awareness of pelvic radiotherapy late effects: qualitative responses amongst therapeutic radiographers.

Oliver, Lauren Ann ORCID: 0000-0001-5816-5498, Porritt, Bridget ORCID: 0000-0003-2283-9168 and Kirby, Mike ORCID: 0000-0001-9765-5641 (2021) A novel e-learning tool to improve knowledge and awareness of pelvic radiotherapy late effects: qualitative responses amongst therapeutic radiographers. BJR open, 3 (1). 20210036-.

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Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1259/bjro.20210036

Abstract

<h4>Objectives</h4>This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a novel e-learning intervention to increase knowledge, awareness and confidence surrounding pelvic radiotherapy late effects amongst therapeutic radiographers (RTTs), and to change staff perceptions of responsibility in providing such information to patients.<h4>Methods</h4>The e-learning intervention was developed using blended learning software (Articulate Global, New York). 23 therapeutic radiographers within a single UK radiotherapy institution received the e-learning. Semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were utilised pre- and post-intervention to obtain qualitative and quantitative results. Thematic analysis of coded interview responses identified recurring themes, whilst statistical analysis was conducted using a Wilcoxon signed-rank test. This first paper presents the qualitative results.<h4>Results</h4>Thematic analysis revealed increased knowledge and awareness of pelvic radiotherapy late effects amongst participants. Five key themes were identified: Knowledge/Confidence; Consent; Professional Responsibility; Gaps within Practice and Time/Space. Whilst several staff reported increased confidence in discussing late effects with patients, further training utilising "blended" pedagogical approaches may be required to achieve longstanding improvements. Following e-learning, participants demonstrated increased professional responsibility to deliver late effects information to patients.<h4>Conclusion</h4>The novel e-learning intervention increased staff knowledge, awareness and confidence surrounding pelvic radiotherapy late effects, whilst changing staff perceptions on professional responsibility in delivering such information.<h4>Advances in knowledge</h4>The e-learning has been disseminated to all hospitals within the region including a new "Radiotherapy Late Effects Clinic", educating various healthcare professionals. Study recommendations have led to introduction of dedicated radiotherapy late effects modules on a novel MSc programme at a UK University.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Clinical Research
Divisions:	Faculty of Health and Life Sciences Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Population Health Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Population Health > School of Health Sciences
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	08 Nov 2021 14:51
Last Modified:	14 Mar 2024 20:04
DOI:	10.1259/bjro.20210036
Open Access URL:	https://doi.org/10.1259/bjro.20210036
Related URLs:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3142941