Strategies to develop student support mechanisms in medical radiation sciences clinical education

Abstract

Clinical placement experience is an important component of medical radiation science (MRS) education, equipping students to safely transition into complex healthcare environments. This commentary draws on evidence from the literature that reports challenges allied health students face in clinical environments. As several factors are implicated that could result in a higher prevalence of psychological distress and mental ill-health in MRS students, there is a need to re-emphasize the importance of developing strategies to support students in clinical education. A key recommendation is to identify associated risk factors early as they can impact on the quality of education and in severe cases be detrimental to students' psychological well-being. This requires an understanding of the full extent and nature of the challenges through partnered approaches between professional organisations, clinical departments, academics and students. Developing evidence-based strategies for improving students' wellbeing in clinical environments is also essential.

Roles of clinical supervisors in the clinical training of radiography students in Zambia: a qualitative study

“…The role of supporting students was also identified in a review conducted by Chamunyonga and others. 30 This role also involves supporting students being bullied, harassed, or stressed. 3,21 In our study, the most common social problem reported was accommodation.…”

Innovative strategies implemented by universities to support medical radiation science students during the COVID‐19 pandemic

“…Adding to the elements mentioned above is student wellbeing which can be affected by a range of issues 11 even without the added pressure of a pandemic. Students identified higher levels of stress surrounding COVID-19 impacting family and friends, for example being worried about contracting the virus whilst on or travelling to placement and passing the virus on to family members.…”

The needs and concerns of clinical educators in radiography education in the face of COVID-19 pandemic

“…5 Like nursing, midwifery, and many allied health education programmes, clinical training is an important cornerstone of radiographer education -equipping students to safely and competently transit into complex healthcare environments. 6,7 During clinical training, students are supported by clinical educators who are usually registered professionals who facilitate clinical education alongside clinical and academic colleagues. 8 Collectively in Singapore, a clinical educator may be a radiographer formally appointed by an academic institution or have an education and training role recognised within their job role.…”

“…The COVID pandemic would likely lead to increased distress and burnout of the students given the dramatic changes to their learning environment and plans. 6,9 The negative sense of well-being could lead to depression, burnout, and anxiety. 45 This was of great concern since Generation Z was shown to be more prone to psychological distress than earlier generations.…”