Preparing for Practice, Part 2: A Simulation-Based Curriculum Framework for Radiopharmaceutical Therapy Education-A...

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences
• Radiopharmaceutical Therapy Education
• Nuclear Medicine Technology Training

Background:

• Clinical partners identified entry-level preparation gaps for nuclear medicine technologists in radiopharmaceutical therapy.
• Previous work involved outreach to clinical sites to gather feedback on these skill deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a simulation-based curriculum framework developed in response to identified clinical preparation gaps.
• To address specific skill deficits in radiopharmaceutical therapy management and radiation safety education.

Main Methods:

• Developed four structured simulation activities progressing from workflow planning to therapy day management.
• Grounded simulations in [177Lu]Lu-DOTATATE (Lutathera) protocols and Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Technologist Section competencies.
• Incorporated guidance for hybrid and online delivery.

Main Results:

• The curriculum addresses identified skill gaps, including radiation measurement recording and survey techniques.
• Enhanced the role of nuclear medicine technologists in radiation safety education within interdisciplinary settings.
• Provided comprehensive supplemental materials for simulation implementation.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training effectively bridges the gap between academic preparation and clinical readiness in radiopharmaceutical therapy.
• The developed framework enhances technologist competency in managing complex radiopharmaceutical therapies and promoting radiation safety.
• This curriculum offers a scalable model for nuclear medicine technology education, adaptable for various delivery methods.