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Advancing therapeutic radiographers competences in Total Body Irradiation (TBI) through Virtual Reality (VR) -guided
A Lastrucci1, N Iosca1, M Zani2
1Department of Allied Health Professions, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, 50134, Florence, Italy; Radiation Oncology Unit, Oncology Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, 50134, Florence, Italy.
Introduction:
Virtual Reality (VR) is increasingly used in medical education to enhance clinical skills in a risk-free environment. In radiotherapy, VR training provides Therapeutic Radiographers (TRs) a valuable opportunity to safely simulate complex procedures such as total body irradiation (TBI). This study evaluates the effectiveness of a VR-based training programme in improving TRs' technical skills and confidence in performing TBI.
Methods:
A multidisciplinary team developed a VR training course implemented at Careggi University Hospital. The course comprised three phases: theoretical lessons, practical training in VR, and post-training evaluation. A pre-course questionnaire was administered to assess the TRs' confidence and knowledge gaps. Training was conducted using Meta-Quest headsets, which simulated the TBI workflow in VR environment. After the training, a post-course questionnaire was used to assess improvements in skills and confidence. Data were analyzed using Likert scale responses and comparative ratings.
Results:
The pre-course questionnaire revealed that only 18.5 % of TRs felt confident performing TBI procedures. The lowest confidence levels were reported in the simulation and verification phases. Post-course results showed that TRs' confidence improved, particularly in performing workflows, patient immobilization, and diode application for in vivo dosimetry. A comparison of Likert scale ratings before and after the course showed an improvement in knowledge and procedural accuracy.
Conclusion:
The VR-based training course was effective in improving technical skills and confidence in TBI procedures. The blended learning approach, which combined theoretical lessons and VR simulation, enhanced both cognitive and motor skills.
Implications For Practice:
This study supports the integration of VR training into radiotherapy training, particularly for complex and low-frequency procedures. Extending VR training to include other techniques and emergency protocols could enhance TRs' competences and clinical skills.
