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

Oliver, LA ORCID: 0000-0001-5816-5498, Porritt, B ORCID: 0000-0003-2283-9168 and Kirby, M 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-. ISSN 2513-9878, 2513-9878

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Abstract

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. Methods: 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. Results: 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. Conclusion: 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. Advances in knowledge: 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:	32 Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, 3211 Oncology and Carcinogenesis, Clinical Research, Cancer, Radiation Oncology
Divisions:	Faculty of Health & Life Sciences Faculty of Health & Life Sciences > Inst. Population Health Faculty of Health & Life Sciences > School of Life Sciences
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	08 Nov 2021 14:51
Last Modified:	12 Mar 2026 19:59
DOI:	10.1259/bjro.20210036
Open Access URL:	https://doi.org/10.1259/bjro.20210036
Related Websites:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3142941
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