The role of ultrasound simulation in increasing Clinical Placement capacity for BSc (Hons) Radiography students – how did the students feel?
Donna Holdcroft, University of Liverpool
Introduction
A radical reform of diagnostic services has been recognised in both the NHS Long Term Plan (2019) and the Richards report (2020). Subsequently, a recommendation was made to train an additional 4,000 radiographers above those training posts already facilitated. Radiography training requires minimum clinical placement hours (1,300) to meet the criteria for Health and Care Professions Council registration to facilitate employment in the NHS. With a limited number of clinical placements available and demand for radiographers increasing, educational establishments need innovative practical training to meet these requirements. Simulation can assist with this challenge. The advent of reasonably priced handheld transducers makes ultrasound a suitable area for simulation, freeing up placement time in the hospital environment and potentially increasing student capacity. This study examines student perceptions of ultrasound simulation.
Methods
This was a quantitative and qualitative study using Likert scales and open-ended questions to demonstrate the impressions of second- and third-year radiography students at Keele University, examining the role of ultrasound simulation to complement or potentially replace ultrasound training in the hospital environment.
Results
Following simulation training, 100% of students considered simulation training met expectations, increased knowledge and would recommend to their peers. 80% of students responded with training complementing placements with 50% of students considering university ultrasound training could replace this provision in hospital environments.
Conclusion
Ultrasound simulation training within the university has the potential to partially replace current clinical training in the hospital environment. With increased demand for clinical placements, this could be an option to increase capacity.