Work

Impact of health simulation with OSCE on the acquisition of radiotherapy competencies by RTT students

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: In France, Radiation Therapist (RTT) education requires a three-year program, which includes specific training in radiotherapy. However, the limited focus on radiotherapy during initial training contributes to a shortage of RTTs. This study examines the impact of simulation-based learning and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) on the acquisition of essential radiotherapy competencies among third-year RTT students. METHODS: During the 2023-2024 academic year, 19 third-year RTT students participated in a study that integrated health simulation into their curriculum. The study featured five simulation stations reflecting various stages of a patient's radiotherapy journey. Students' competencies were assessed through self-evaluation questionnaires administered at three points: beginning of the year (T1), after practical workshops (PW), and post-OSCE (T3). Statistical analysis was conducted using the Friedman test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed across all stations, with marked progress in paramedical consultation skills, CT planning and immobilization, dosimetry, error identification, and image matching. For instance, students' self-assessment ratings for paramedical consultation skills improved from 6 % rating themselves as "Good" or "Very good" at T1 to 94 % at T3 (p < 0.0001). Similar significant gains were noted in other stations. CONCLUSION: Simulation-based learning, particularly through OSCEs, significantly enhances the acquisition of radiotherapy competencies. The approach is effective in deepening both technical skills and non-technical skills, such as clinical reasoning and communication. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Given these positive outcomes, integrating simulation-based training into the RTT curriculum should be reinforced. This strategy addresses the growing demand for highly skilled RTTs and ensures that graduates are better prepared for clinical practice in radiotherapy.

Source: Radiography

DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.102975

Authors: S. Corbin, F.-X. Laborne, C. Robert, A. Beasse

Institutions: Institut Gustave Roussy, Centre Hospitalier Sud Francilien, Inserm, Université Paris-Saclay, Radiothérapie Moléculaire et Innovation Thérapeutique

Language: English

Topic: Simulation-Based Education in Healthcare

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,990