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Paterson A, Devlin L, Mitchell J, Ogg J, Farnan K, Coupland S, Duffton A. Survey of research attitudes of RTTs working in Scotland: A Scottish radiographer research forum collaboration. Tech Innov Patient Support Radiat Oncol 2024; 30:100248. [PMID: 38707714 PMCID: PMC11067355 DOI: 10.1016/j.tipsro.2024.100248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Evidence-based practice (EBP) is associated with improved treatment outcomes and survival in cancer patients. Engagement from therapeutic radiographers/radiation therapists (RTTs) in research, has been identified as a challenge. The aim of this survey was to gain an understanding of RTT attitudes to research in Scotland. Methods This was a prospective study that used a mixed method cross-sectional survey, with an online survey tool (Webropol). The survey was developed with collaborators from all Scottish Radiotherapy Centres (n = 5) and piloted by 6 conveniently sampled RTT and validated by 8 experienced RTTs. The survey comprised 29 items, 7 selection-based demographic questions, and 18 statements with a Likert 5-point metric scale rating (1 = strongly disagree, 2 = disagree, 3 = neutral, 4 = agree, 5 = strongly agree). The validity was measured with the content validity index (CVI) and item-CVI by 8 experienced RTTs. Low scoring I-CVI (<0.78) questions were removed.A total of 314 RTTs working in Scottish Radiotherapy Centres were invited to participate. Approvals were given by each Head of department (HoD), who also confirmed number of RTTs. Results A total of 102/314 (32.5 %) RTTs responded. The majority of RTTs agreed they were confident they had sufficient research skills to inform EBP (n = 58/102, 56.9 %), felt confident discussing EBP with colleagues (n = 67, 65.7 %) and felt research was important for role development (n = 89, 87.2 %). Low mean scores and standard deviation (SD) were observed for the following: "I know how to get involved in research" 3.2 (1.2), "I have been given the opportunity to get involved in research" 3.2 (1.1), and "I am well informed about current research projects in my department" 3.2 (1.1). 57.8 % (n = 59) of RTTs disagreed they were confident adequate time would be provided to be involved in research. Conclusion The survey results demonstrated a predominantly positive attitude to research amongst RTTs working in Scottish centres, with most common perceived barriers being access to protected time and staff; training, and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Paterson
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0YN, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Lynsey Devlin
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0YN, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer Sciences and University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Mitchell
- Edinburgh Cancer Centre, Fettes College, 2 Carrington Road, Edinburgh EH4 1QJ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Jacqueline Ogg
- Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsty Farnan
- Ninewells Radiotherapy Department, James Arrott Drive, Dundee DD2 1UB, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Suzanne Coupland
- Raigmore Hospital Inverness, Old Perth Road, Inverness IV2 3UJ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Aileen Duffton
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0YN, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer Sciences and University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Crowther K, Carey N, McFadden S, Stenner K, Hughes C. Therapeutic radiographer prescribing practices in the United Kingdom: Questionnaire survey. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30:964-970. [PMID: 38657390 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2024.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Non-medical professionals in the United Kingdom (UK) have been granted prescribing rights to improve patient care quality and cost-effectiveness. There is limited evidence on how therapeutic radiographer prescribers have impacted medicine management or patient services. METHODS An online survey was conducted amongst non-medical prescribing therapeutic radiographers in the UK between 2019 and 2022. The study teams initially analysed the individual data sets, subsequently combined, and secondary analysis was performed to provide a UK perspective, to understand the services provided and identify areas for improvement. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics from Microsoft Excel® and SPSS®. RESULTS 74 non-medical prescribing therapeutic radiographers who were predominantly over 40 years old and in full-time work participated. The main job categories were consultant radiographers (n = 23, 31.1%) and advanced practice practitioners (n = 18, 24.3%). Many use their prescribing qualifications (87.5%, n = 62), issuing a mean of 15 independent and seven items by supplementary and prescribing per week. Most received assessment and diagnostic skills training before prescribing courses (91.6%, n = 67). Respondents prescribed from a median of six areas, with the highest being in GI (82%), skin (68%), infections (58%), urinary tract disorders (55%) and ear, nose, and oropharynx conditions (54%). CONCLUSION This study presents the first report on therapeutic radiographers prescribing in the UK, offering insights into current practices and highlighting the success of non-medical prescribing. Therapeutic radiographers' roles continue to expand into advanced practice and medicine-prescribing responsibilities, contributing to holistic and patient-centred care. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The results are relevant for nations grappling with oncology workforce shortages and contemplating similar roles for therapeutic radiographers. The study can be a valuable resource for policymakers and healthcare organisations worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Crowther
- School Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, Belfast, York Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK; Accuray Incorporated, 1240 Deming Way, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - N Carey
- Centre for Rural Health Sciences, University of the Highlands and Islands, 12B Ness Walk, Inverness, Scotland, UK
| | - S McFadden
- School Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, Belfast, York Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - K Stenner
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, 30 Priestley Road, Surrey Research Park, Guildford, England, UK
| | - C Hughes
- School Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, Belfast, York Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
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Oliveira M, Hogg P, Di Prospero L, Lacey S, El-Farra S, Johansen S. Research activity among diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers: An international survey. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2024:S1939-8654(24)00015-8. [PMID: 38403518 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2024.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Various national solutions have been considered and implemented to address the factors which limit radiographer engagement in conducting research. Nevertheless, national literature continues to suggest that radiographer engagement in research remains low. The aim of this study was to extend the existing evidence base by conducting an international survey to assess diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers involvement with, barriers to and support mechanisms for research. METHODS Data collection was obtained via an online questionnaire which was distributed by the International Society of Radiographers and Radiologic Technologists (ISRRT). The study population included an international sample of qualified diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers across clinical and academic contexts in a variety of different roles such as clinical practice, management, education and research. RESULTS In total, 420 diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers completed the survey. Multiple reasons were identified that were considered to inhibit respondents from conducting research. 69.3% indicated a combination of reasons for lack of engagement with research, rather than one single issue. Examples of reasons include: lack of time, insufficient research funding, limited research expertise, and lack of a suitable mentorship scheme. CONCLUSION A minor segment of survey respondents indicated involvement in research activity. Lack of dedicated time to research, mentors, and funding were among the main barriers to conduct research. Further research is required to explore what solutions are available to overcoming the barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Oliveira
- Department of Heath Technology and Biology, Federal Institute of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | - Lisa Di Prospero
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Practice-Based Research and Innovation, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen Lacey
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; University of Melbourne, Australia; Director of Education International Society for Radiographers and Radiation Technologists (ISRRT)
| | - Samar El-Farra
- Higher Colleges of Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates; Radiographers Society of Emirates, Board - United Arab Emirates
| | - Safora Johansen
- Health Faculty, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway; Cancer Treatment Department, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Singapore Institution of Technology, Health and Social Sciences, Singapore.
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Pallin ND, Webb J, Brown L, Woznitza N, Stewart-Lord A, Charlesworth L, Beeken RJ, Fisher A. Online training resources to aid therapeutic radiographers in engaging in conversations about physical activity and diet: A mixed methods study. Radiography (Lond) 2022; 28:124-132. [PMID: 34583887 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study explored changes in therapeutic radiographers' (TRs) self-reported knowledge and skills to engage in conversations about physical activity and diet with people living with and beyond cancer following completion of publicly available online courses. METHODS Participants were randomly assigned to two of five online courses that aim to support health professionals to engage in conversations about physical activity and diet in the oncology setting. Participants rated their agreement with 18 statements related to the COM-B (capability, opportunity and motivation-behaviour) model components following completion of an online course on healthy diet (n = 16) and physical activity (n = 21). Semi-structured telephone interviews (n = 21) were also conducted. Analysis of the interviews was guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework. RESULTS Overall, the online courses were acceptable and the TRs in this study self-reported improved COM to deliver advice on physical activity and diet. The inclusion of the evidence and scientific rationale on the benefits of diet and physical activity, and also guidance on how to start conversations with patients were highlighted as important features of the courses. Suggestions for adaptations to the nutrition courses included the need for content that accounts for the side effects cancer patients experience while undergoing treatment. To support the implementation of training and the delivery of advice on these topics, multi-disciplinary working, organisational support and guidance around professional role boundaries were highlighted as important. CONCLUSION Current publicly available online courses on physical activity and diet for oncology health professionals can reduce some barriers among TRs to providing advice to those living with and beyond cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Existing online training courses could be used to support TRs to deliver physical activity and dietary advice in practice. Findings show that these courses can be disseminated within radiotherapy departments. The results also highlight a number of important considerations for the implementation of brief health behaviour advice and online training interventions on physical activity and diet within cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- N D Pallin
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Western Gateway Building, Western Rd, Cork, Ireland; School of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, London, UK.
| | - J Webb
- Centre for Primary Health and Social Care, School of Social Professions, London Metropolitan University, London, UK.
| | - L Brown
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
| | - N Woznitza
- Radiology, Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - A Stewart-Lord
- School of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, London, UK.
| | - L Charlesworth
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK.
| | - R J Beeken
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK; Department of Behavioural Science & Health, University College London, London, UK.
| | - A Fisher
- Department of Behavioural Science & Health, University College London, London, UK.
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Charlesworth L, Hutton D, Hussain H, Wong H. Therapeutic radiographers supporting individuals undergoing radiotherapy to stop smoking: Testing a training resource in clinical practice. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 27 Suppl 1:S50-7. [PMID: 34507902 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study developed and piloted the first online training package to support implementation and delivery of brief smoking cessation interventions for therapeutic radiographers in four radiotherapy departments in England. METHODS A previously reported systematic literature review and data analysis from the previously reported pre-focus group questionnaire and focus groups enabled the development of an online training package. The questionnaire was repeated by the participating therapeutic radiographers following completion of the training resource (n = 31). The results of the comparative questions from the pre and post questionnaires were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 24). RESULTS In total, 43 therapeutic radiographer participants completed the pre-questionnaire and 31 participants continued to complete the post questionnaire, having completed the online training package. The previously conducted focus groups identified several barriers to the delivery of smoking cessation, that were addressed through the development of an online training package. Following the completion of the training; therapeutic radiographers had increased knowledge and confidence regarding smoking cessation, the number of therapeutic radiographers who believe that smoking cessation is part of their role increased and therapeutic radiographers more routinely have conversations about smoking cessation. CONCLUSION The training resource improved therapeutic radiographers' knowledge and confidence and increased awareness of the role of the therapeutic radiographer in the provision of smoking cessation interventions. Challenges remain that continue to prevent some therapeutic radiographers from delivering smoking cessation interventions and strong leadership and implementation of strategy and guidance is essential to ensure wider implementation. Recording and measuring impact of interventions remains an area to be addressed, alongside cultural changes and reassurance around the therapeutic relationship. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This training tool has proven to be effective in the sample within this study and should be disseminated and evaluated more widely across radiotherapy provision within the United Kingdom.
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Taylor A, Shuttleworth P. Supporting the development of the research and clinical trials therapeutic radiographers workforce: The RaCTTR survey. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 27 Suppl 1:S20-S27. [PMID: 34420887 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Research and Clinical Trials Therapeutic Radiographers network is a College of Radiographers Specialist Interest Group. It was established to develop and facilitate a support network for therapeutic radiographers working in roles which involve the delivery of radiotherapy clinical trials. Its establishment highlighted the challenges faced by therapeutic radiographers employed in these roles. Consequently, the authors sought to formally capture the working landscape of this subsection of the radiographic workforce, aiming to ascertain any potential barriers to professional development and the increase of clinical trials activity by 15% mandated by NHS England. METHODS A Qualtrics survey was designed, pilot tested and distributed to the sixty-two radiotherapy departments across England and the devolved nations. Departments were questioned on the size, structure and the scope of practice of their radiotherapy research and clinical trials team members. FINDINGS Thirty-nine complete responses were received, providing a response rate of 62%, with each region of the UK represented in the survey. The findings demonstrated issues related to the number of posts affecting capacity, contract status jeopardising the security and effectiveness of their role and the activities specific to research and clinical trials being 'bolted on' to existing roles. Although advanced practice was being undertaken by around a third of this workforce the findings established several barriers including individual/teams' capacity and a perceived lack of support for therapeutic radiographers to progress in clinical trials roles. CONCLUSION The findings illustrate several important implications which if not addressed may not only hinder UK radiotherapy departments to achieve the national increase of 15% of clinical trial activity over the next three years but also restrict the growth in size and scope of professional practice of the workforce. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The research and clinical trials workforce need to adopt a collaborative approach to profile raising and establish a standardised professional scope of practice to support growth and recognition of their role.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Taylor
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Whitham Road, Sheffield, S10 2SJ, United Kingdom.
| | - P Shuttleworth
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Whitham Road, Sheffield, S10 2SJ, United Kingdom
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