WE-G-BRA-05: Simulated Troubleshooting Session for Medical Physics Resident Rotations

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Therapy
• Clinical Training

Background:

• Troubleshooting is a critical skill for clinical medical physicists.
• Limited opportunities exist for residents to practice troubleshooting real clinical scenarios.
• Safe radiation therapy necessitates the ability to analyze and correct abnormal situations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel strategy for training medical physics residents in troubleshooting skills.
• To improve residents' ability to handle complex clinical situations.
• To enhance the acquisition of essential clinical physics skills.

Main Methods:

• Designed simulated troubleshooting sessions for clinical rotations.
• Included a brachytherapy rotation example with intentionally incorrect setup of transfer tubes.
• Assessed resident performance through a dummy plan delivery and oral examination.
• Compared outcomes of residents with and without simulated troubleshooting sessions.

Main Results:

• Both residents passed the examination.
• The resident who participated in the simulated troubleshooting session performed better.
• Superior understanding of clinical practice and improved troubleshooting skills were observed in the resident with simulation training.

Conclusions:

• Simulated troubleshooting sessions are crucial for effective resident training.
• These sessions are necessary supplements to clinical rotations.
• Incorporating simulations enhances residents' practical clinical skills and preparedness.