A Pilot Project Exploring Possible Novel Ways of Delivering Relevant Education for Radiation Oncology Nurses During Covid-19 Social Distancing

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

John Hillson (Creator)

Institution

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )

Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Advisor

Kathryn Lawrence

Abstract: Background: The first needs assessment in the USA reported that RO nurses lacked standardized, structured education and certification programs for onboarding and continuing education. Survivorship care is an increasing need for all nurses. All RNs may work with late radiation side effects. Purpose: Explore the education needs and improve the education of radiation oncology specialist nurses. Methods: Utilizing online survey software, anonymous limited demographics were collected. An adapted version of a needs assessment survey was administered to RNs at a single academic medical center RO department in an IRB-exempt QI project. A pre-post test design was utilized, and RNs were asked to provide feedback on a self-study video curriculum developed for this project.Results: Over half of respondents were oncology certified, and nearly half had >5 years RO experience. Moderate confidence was expressed regarding common technologies and duties, including radiology, disease sites, combined modality therapy, and coordination of care. Regarding acute toxicity management, RNs reported the highest confidence with prostate/genitourinary, and sarcoma cancers; with lower scores across hematologic and pediatric cancers. Regarding late side effect management, the highest scores were observed among prostate/genitourinary, sarcoma, and breast cancers; with lower scores for skin, CNS, GI, hematologic, and pediatric cancers. Conclusion and Recommendations: These results highlight the need for a formalized curriculum and can help to target educational needs while guiding education materials development. This study can inform the much-needed development of education for all RNs.

A Pilot Project Exploring Possible Novel Ways of Delivering Relevant Education for Radiation Oncology Nurses During Covid-19 Social Distancing
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Created on 1/10/2024
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Additional Information

Publication

Other

Language: English

Date: 2023

Keywords

Radiation Oncology, radiation, nurs, nursing education

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