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The role of radiotherapy patients in provision of student interpersonal skills feedback

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  09 July 2013

P. Bridge*
Affiliation:
School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
C. Pirihi
Affiliation:
Premion, John Flynn Private Hospital, Tugun, QLD, Australia
M. Carmichael
Affiliation:
School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
*
Correspondence to: Pete Bridge, Radiation Therapy Course Coordinator, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia. Tel: 0061731382273. E-mail: pete.bridge@qut.edu.au

Abstract

Background

At Queensland University of Technology, student radiation therapists receive regular feedback from clinical staff relating to clinical interpersonal skills. Although this is of great value, there is anecdotal evidence that students communicate differently with patients when under observation.

Purpose

The aim of this pilot was to counter this perceived observer effect by allowing patients to provide students with additional feedback.

Materials and methods

Radiotherapy patients from two departments were provided with anonymous feedback forms relating to aspects of student interpersonal skills. Clinical assessors, mentors and students were also provided with feedback forms, including questions about the role of patient feedback. Patient perceptions of student performance were correlated with staff feedback and assessment scores.

Results

Results indicated that the feedback was valued by both students and patients. Students reported that the additional dimension focused them on communication, set goals for development and increased motivation. These changes derived from both feedback and study participation, suggesting that the questionnaires could be a useful teaching tool. Patients scored more generously than mentors, although there was agreement in relative grading.

Conclusions

The anonymous questionnaire is a convenient and valuable method of gathering patient feedback on students. Future iterations will determine the optimum timing for this method of feedback.

Type
Original Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2013 

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