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)

In this section

In This Section

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.