Communication skills training for radiation therapists: preparing patients for radiation therapy

Abstract

Introduction: Patients sometimes present for radiation therapy with high levels of anxiety. Communication skills training may assist radiation therapists to conduct more effective consultations with patients prior to treatment planning and treatment commencement. The overall aim of our research is to examine the effectiveness of a preparatory programme 'RT Prepare' delivered by radiation therapists to reduce patient psychological distress. The purpose of this manuscript was to describe the communication skills workshops developed for radiation therapists and evaluate participants' feedback. Methods: Radiation therapists were invited to participate in two communication skills workshops run on the same day: (1) Consultation skills in radiation therapy and (2) Eliciting and responding to patients' emotional cues. Evaluation forms were completed. Radiation therapists' consultations with patients were then audiorecorded and evaluated prior to providing a follow-up workshop with participants. Results: Nine full day workshops were held. Sixty radiation therapists participated. Positive feedback was received for both workshops with 88% or more participants agreeing or strongly agreeing with all the statements about the different components of the two workshops. Radiation therapists highlighted participating in role play with an actor, discussing issues; receiving feedback; acquiring new skills and knowledge; watching others role play and practicing with checklist were their favourite aspects of the initial workshop. The follow-up workshops provided radiation therapists with feedback on how they identified and addressed patients' psychological concerns; time spent with patients during consultations and the importance of finding private space for consultations. Conclusion: Communication skills training consisting of preparing patients for radiation therapy and eliciting and responding to

Reduced patient anxiety as a result of radiation therapist-led psychosocial support: a systematic review

“…‘Information/education’ and ‘screening and needs assessment’ interventions are feasible and improve patient outcomes . However, they must be implemented strategically due to perceived negative impact on staffing requirements, appointment schedules and resources, for example private rooms . Mitchell and Symonds recommended engaging motivated and non‐motivated RTs in the development process, providing training, ongoing support/mentoring and meaningful feedback and developing clear action plans .…”

“…Furthermore, RTs interact with patients daily, and throughout treatment are able to tailor information to suit individual patient's changing needs and to involve patient's in their own care, for example, by encouraging them to ask questions . The RT–patient rapport also enables RTs to consider whether to involve families and carers in education/information sessions which may improve the overall patient experience and potentially reduce patient and family anxiety . In summation, the RT–patient relationship is unique and valued by RTs and patients.…”

“…Similarly, in a study by Halkett et al, 60 RTs who participated in two communication skill workshops rated strong satisfaction with all aspects of the training including relevance to daily practice, increased confidence and acquisition of new skills. However, to ensure effective learning, small group sessions with opportunities to practice skills and receive feedback are essential . Furthermore, to ensure translation of learned skills into the clinical environment, clinical supervision/mentoring and feedback are recommended .…”

“…It is widely documented that up to 49% of patients attending radiation therapy appointments may experience anxiety and distress . Anxiety is heightened during the first few visits to radiation oncology, particularly prior to starting treatment . During these visits, patients meet a variety of health care professionals (HCPs), including radiation oncologists (ROs), radiation therapists (RTs) and radiation oncology nurses (RONs).…”

“…Up to one third of patients treated with radiation therapy have been identified as having unmet psychosocial needs with respect to information and communication, emotional and spiritual support, management of physical symptoms and involvement of family and friends . These unmet needs can result in refusal to undergo radiation therapy, treatment delays, reduced compliance, low adherence to medical advice, decreased quality of life, decreased satisfaction with services and increased resource use . It may be possible to improve the quality of care for patients treated with radiation therapy by addressing their unmet psychosocial needs; however, there have been few studies in this area and no systematic reviews.…”