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-.
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 |
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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: | |
URI: | https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3142941 |