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Pre-treatment head and neck immobilisation and communication scenario

The target learning group of this case study was Interprofessional radiotherapy team (Radiographer, Physicist and Radiation Oncologist)

Learning Outcomes

  • Knowledge

    • Consent of patient for treatment prior to pre-treatment process.

    • Preparation of appropriate immobilisation equipment.

    • Pre-treatment radiographer-led discussion and “1st day” information appropriate to patient.

  • Skills

    • Position patient for pre-treatment process.

    • Manufacture thermoplastic mask for patient immobilisation.

    • Adapt communication style based on individual patient needs / responses

  • Attitudes/Behaviours

    • Communication
      Patient-centred care

    • Team working

    • Safe working (checking)

Scenario Environment

Location

Treatment planning / immobilisation area.

Props/Equipment

Notes, consent, immobilisation equipment.

Make-Up/Moulage

N/A

Multi-Media

N/A

Personnel

Planning facilitator, simulated patient (actor or peer / lecturer).

Potential Distracters

Environment – staff, calls etc.

Other

 

Initial Simulation Setup

Initial set up - Immobilisation area:

  • Check waterbath
  • Select appropriate positioning equipment

Initial set up - Resources:

  • Simulated patient notes available
  • Relevant positioning equipment

First actions

  • Familiarisation with patient notes
  • Consultation with patient to gain consent for treatment

Case Introduction

  • Patient has attended for first appointment in pre-treatment.
  • Patient notes – indications of early-stage dementia.

Available Collateral Information

N/A

Instructions for Personnel

Oncologist

  • Lead consent process

Radiographer

  • Lead pre-treatment discussion and manufacture of immobilisation mask

Physicist

  • Observation

Evaluation Strategy

Pre- and post-event completion of the "Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale" to measure impact and a Likert-style survey to gather participant feedback.