The changing role of pre-admission work experience (clinical visits) in Therapeutic Radiography, Diagnostic Radiography and Operating Department Practice: Student perspectives (Part 1). (October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ali, N.; Saunders, J.; Ibbotson, R.; Shute, E.; Burke, G.; Cadman, V.; Elkington, M.; Nightingale, J.
• Is Part Of: Radiography. Volume 28(2022)Supplement 1
• Page Start: S77
• Page End: S83
• Publication Date: 2022-10
• Subjects: Recruitment -- Education -- Workforce -- Radiography -- Work shadowing -- Healthcare careers; Diagnostic imaging -- Periodicals; Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Diagnostic Imaging -- Periodicals; Neoplasms -- Periodicals; Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Imagerie pour le diagnostic -- Périodiques; Radiothérapie -- Périodiques; Cancer -- Radiothérapie -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 616.0757
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2022.08.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1078-8174

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Clinical visits (work experience opportunities) are a recommended part of admissions processes for many diagnostic and therapeutic radiography courses but not for operating department practice (ODP) where observational visits are challenging for applicants to obtain. The Covid-19 pandemic interrupted access to visits for all prospective students; this study presents a review of the value of clinical visits and alternatives. Methods: This article reports the initial qualitative phase of a three-phase mixed methods study. Using a critical realist approach, focus groups explored first year student experiences of the 'ideal' pre-admission clinical visit and alternative resources. A structured review of Online Prospectus (OLP) entries was undertaken by two student researchers to ascertain the requirements for clinical visits for the three professions. Results: Four focus groups included 25 first year students interviewed prior to their first clinical placement (14 therapeutic radiography, 5 diagnostic radiography and 6 ODP students). Three themes were constructed, namely: informing career choices, the clinical visit experience, and the value of clinical visits. Clinical visits affirmed rather than inspired career choices. The best timing for a visit was before admission interviews and optimal duration was a full day. Interacting with current students was the most valued aspect. Videos and simulations provided in-depth information about the professional role and allowed replay, but some participants found the videos uninspiring. OLP entries present a confusing picture for applicants who may be researching several Universities and professions. Conclusion: Clinical visits were deemed 'vital' to radiography student career choices, yet ODPs who could not access visits were comfortable with videos. Simulated visits are a safe option amidst the pandemic but must capture the dynamic and patient-centred nature of practice to accurately inform career choices.