The Experts below are selected from a list of 579 Experts worldwide ranked by ideXlab platform
Lukasz M Mazur - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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impact of workspace design on Radiation Therapist technicians physical stressors mental workload situation awareness and performance
Practical radiation oncology, 2021Co-Authors: Prithima R Mosaly, Robert Adams, Gregg Tracton, John Dooley, Karthik Adapa, Joseph K Nuamah, Lawrence B Marks, Lukasz M MazurAbstract:Abstract Purpose To assess the impact of workspace configuration on Radiation Therapists’ (RTs) physical stressors, mental workload (WL), situational awareness (SA), and performance during routine treatment delivery tasks in a simulated environment. Methods 14 RTs were randomized to two workspace configurations, ‘current’ (not ergonomically optimized; n=7) and ‘enhanced’ (ergonomically optimized, n=7) while performing 4 simulated scenarios. Physical stressors were objectively assessed using a rapid upper limb assessment tool (RULA). Mental WL was measured at the end of each simulated scenario subjectively using the NASA Task-Load Index (NASA-TLX), and objectively throughout the scenario using eye-tracking metrics (pupil diameter and blink rate). SA was measured at the end of each simulated scenario subjectively using the situation awareness and review technique (SART). Performance was measured objectively via assessment of time-out compliance, error detection and procedural compliance. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test the impact of workspace configuration on physical stressors, mental WL, SA, and performance. Results The enhanced configuration significantly reduced physical stressors (RULA; p Conclusions Our results suggest that an ergonomically designed workspace may minimize physical stressors and improve the performance of RTs.
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impact of workspace design on Radiation Therapist technicians physical stressors mental workload situation awareness and performance
Practical radiation oncology, 2021Co-Authors: Prithima R Mosaly, Robert Adams, Gregg Tracton, John Dooley, Karthik Adapa, Joseph K Nuamah, Lawrence B Marks, Lukasz M MazurAbstract:Abstract Purpose Our purpose was to assess the effect of workspace configuration on Radiation Therapists' (RTs) physical stressors, mental workload (WL), situational awareness (SA), and performance during routine treatment delivery tasks in a simulated environment. Methods and Materials Fourteen RTs were randomized to 2 workspace configurations while performing 4 simulated scenarios: current (not ergonomically optimized; n=7) and enhanced (ergonomically optimized, n=7). Physical stressors were objectively assessed using a rapid upper limb assessment tool. Mental WL was measured at the end of each simulated scenario subjectively using the NASA Task-Load Index and objectively throughout the scenario using eye-tracking metrics (pupil diameter and blink rate). SA was measured at the end of each simulated scenario subjectively using the situation awareness and review technique. Performance was measured objectively via assessment of time-out compliance, error detection, and procedural compliance. Analysis of variance was used to test the effect of workspace configuration on physical stressors, mental WL, SA, and performance. Results The enhanced configuration significantly reduced physical stressors (rapid upper limb assessment; P Conclusions Our results suggest that an ergonomically designed workspace may minimize physical stressors and improve the performance of RTs.
Michael Jefford - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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assessing the cost effectiveness of rt prepare a Radiation Therapist delivered intervention for reducing psychological distress prior to radiotherapy
Psycho-oncology, 2019Co-Authors: David Youens, Georgia Halkett, Moira Oconnor, Michael Jefford, Penelope Schofield, Cameron M WrightAbstract:Objective: To determine the cost‐effectiveness of RT Prepare in reducing breast cancer patients' psychological distress before treatment, compared with usual care. Methods: RT Prepare, an intervention involving patient education and support consultations with a Radiation Therapist (RT), was implemented at three Australian sites (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registration: ACTRN12611001000998). The primary outcome was change in psychological distress using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS); secondary outcomes were changes in quality of life (QoL) and additional health service use. Costs (2015 $AU) included consultation time and training delivery. Between‐group comparisons of HADS and QoL used generalised linear mixed models, and comparisons of health service use used negative binomial regression. Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) indicated mean costs per 1‐point decrease in HADS score. Sensitivity analyses explored variation in facility size and uncertainty in intervention effectiveness. Results: Among 218 controls and 189 intervention participants, the intervention significantly lowered HADS scores at treatment commencement (adjusted mean difference 1.06 points). There was no significant effect on QoL or additional service use. Mean intervention costs were AU$171 per participant (US$130, €119) mostly related to RT training (approximately AU$142 (US$108, €99). An ICER of $158 (US$120, €110) was estimated. Cost‐effectiveness improved in a sensitivity analysis representing a large facility with higher patient numbers. Conclusion: This study provides new data on the cost‐effectiveness of an RT‐delivered intervention to reduce psychological distress prior to treatment, which will be useful to inform delivery of similar services. As most costs were upfront, cost‐effectiveness would likely improve if implemented as standard care.
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rt prepare a Radiation Therapist delivered intervention reduces psychological distress in women with breast cancer referred for radiotherapy
British Journal of Cancer, 2018Co-Authors: Georgia Halkett, Moira Oconnor, Sanchia Aranda, Michael Jefford, Susan Merchant, Nigel Spry, Robert Kane, Therese ShawAbstract:The aims of this study were to determine whether a Radiation Therapist-led patient education intervention (RT Prepare) reduced breasts cancer patients’ psychological distress (primary endpoint); anxiety, depression and concerns about radiotherapy, and increased knowledge of radiotherapy and preparedness (secondary endpoints). Patient health system usage and costs were also assessed. A multiple-baseline study across three sites. The RT Prepare intervention comprised two consultations with a Radiation Therapist: prior to treatment planning and on the first day of treatment. Radiation Therapists focused on providing sensory and procedural information and addressing patients’ pre-treatment anxiety. Usual care data were collected prior to intervention commencement. Data collection occurred: after meeting their Radiation oncologist, prior to treatment planning, first day of treatment and after treatment completion. Multilevel mixed effects regression models were used. In total, 218 usual care and 190 intervention patients participated. Compared with usual care, intervention participants reported lower psychological distress at treatment commencement (p = 0.01); lower concerns about radiotherapy (p < 0.01); higher patient knowledge (p < 0.001); higher preparedness for procedural concerns (p < 0.001) and higher preparedness for sensory-psychological concerns at treatment planning (p < 0.001). Mean within-trial costs per patient were estimated at $AU159 (US$120); mean ongoing costs at $AU35 (US$26). The RT Prepare intervention was effective in reducing breast cancer patients’ psychological distress and preparing patients for treatment. This intervention provides an opportunity for Radiation Therapists to extend their role into providing patients with information and support prior to treatment to reduce psychological distress.
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pilot randomised controlled trial of a Radiation Therapist led educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to commencing radiotherapy
Supportive Care in Cancer, 2013Co-Authors: Georgia Halkett, Moira Oconnor, Sanchia Aranda, Michael Jefford, Therese ShawAbstract:PURPOSE Although patients receive information prior to commencing radiotherapy, they often experience anxiety and distress. We conducted a pilot randomised controlled trial to determine whether a Radiation Therapist led psycho-educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to radiotherapy is likely to be effective in reducing radiotherapy-related concerns, patient anxiety and depression. METHODS The intervention comprised two face-to-face consultations with a Radiation Therapist (one prior to Radiation planning and the other prior to treatment). Patients completed surveys at baseline, prior to treatment planning and on the first day of treatment. Outcome measures included the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Radiation Therapy Related Patient Concerns and Radiation Therapy Knowledge Scales. RESULTS One hundred and twenty two patients completed baseline measures. Fifty-eight patients received usual care, and 64 received the intervention. After the first consultation, patient anxiety was significantly lower in the intervention group (p = 0.048), as were concerns about radiotherapy (p = 0.001). There were no differences between groups for depression. Patient knowledge for the intervention group was higher after the first consultation (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This intervention is likely to be effective in reducing patient anxiety and concerns and increasing knowledge. Future research is required to test this intervention with a larger population.
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development and pilot testing of a Radiation Therapist led educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to commencing radiotherapy
Asia-pacific Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2012Co-Authors: Georgia Halkett, Moira Oconnor, Michael Jefford, Nigel Spry, Penelope Schofield, Debra York, Moyez Jiwa, Mandy TaylorAbstract:AIM: To describe the development of the content and pilot testing of a Radiation Therapist-led educational intervention for breast cancer patients about to commence radiotherapy. Pilot testing consisted of testing the intervention for appropriateness, feasibility and acceptance. METHODS: A tailored intervention consisting of two face-to-face meetings with a Radiation Therapist (one before Radiation planning, the other before treatment) was developed using Level I evidence for preparing patients for potentially threatening procedures. Training of intervention Radiation Therapists consisted of two communication skills workshops. Radiation Therapists' consultations were tape-recorded and analyzed. The feasibility of the intervention was assessed by response rates and feedback from patients and Radiation Therapists. Patients completed surveys at baseline and following each intervention delivery. The main outcome measures were anxiety and depression, patient concerns and knowledge about radiotherapy. RESULTS: Response rates were considered acceptable. Twelve patients were enrolled and completed baseline measures. Nine patients completed follow-up measures following the second consultation. Preliminary results showed a trend for a decrease in anxiety and depression levels following the first consultation. There was also a decrease in concerns about radiotherapy and an increase in patients' knowledge. The instruments showed variability at baseline and discriminated between different responses over time. Radiation Therapists adhered to providing the interventions. Interviews with Radiation Therapists and patients demonstrated that the intervention was feasible and acceptable. CONCLUSION: This pilot study demonstrated that this new intervention is both feasible and acceptable to Radiation Therapists and patients. The intervention is now being assessed using a randomized controlled trial.
Prithima R Mosaly - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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impact of workspace design on Radiation Therapist technicians physical stressors mental workload situation awareness and performance
Practical radiation oncology, 2021Co-Authors: Prithima R Mosaly, Robert Adams, Gregg Tracton, John Dooley, Karthik Adapa, Joseph K Nuamah, Lawrence B Marks, Lukasz M MazurAbstract:Abstract Purpose To assess the impact of workspace configuration on Radiation Therapists’ (RTs) physical stressors, mental workload (WL), situational awareness (SA), and performance during routine treatment delivery tasks in a simulated environment. Methods 14 RTs were randomized to two workspace configurations, ‘current’ (not ergonomically optimized; n=7) and ‘enhanced’ (ergonomically optimized, n=7) while performing 4 simulated scenarios. Physical stressors were objectively assessed using a rapid upper limb assessment tool (RULA). Mental WL was measured at the end of each simulated scenario subjectively using the NASA Task-Load Index (NASA-TLX), and objectively throughout the scenario using eye-tracking metrics (pupil diameter and blink rate). SA was measured at the end of each simulated scenario subjectively using the situation awareness and review technique (SART). Performance was measured objectively via assessment of time-out compliance, error detection and procedural compliance. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test the impact of workspace configuration on physical stressors, mental WL, SA, and performance. Results The enhanced configuration significantly reduced physical stressors (RULA; p Conclusions Our results suggest that an ergonomically designed workspace may minimize physical stressors and improve the performance of RTs.
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impact of workspace design on Radiation Therapist technicians physical stressors mental workload situation awareness and performance
Practical radiation oncology, 2021Co-Authors: Prithima R Mosaly, Robert Adams, Gregg Tracton, John Dooley, Karthik Adapa, Joseph K Nuamah, Lawrence B Marks, Lukasz M MazurAbstract:Abstract Purpose Our purpose was to assess the effect of workspace configuration on Radiation Therapists' (RTs) physical stressors, mental workload (WL), situational awareness (SA), and performance during routine treatment delivery tasks in a simulated environment. Methods and Materials Fourteen RTs were randomized to 2 workspace configurations while performing 4 simulated scenarios: current (not ergonomically optimized; n=7) and enhanced (ergonomically optimized, n=7). Physical stressors were objectively assessed using a rapid upper limb assessment tool. Mental WL was measured at the end of each simulated scenario subjectively using the NASA Task-Load Index and objectively throughout the scenario using eye-tracking metrics (pupil diameter and blink rate). SA was measured at the end of each simulated scenario subjectively using the situation awareness and review technique. Performance was measured objectively via assessment of time-out compliance, error detection, and procedural compliance. Analysis of variance was used to test the effect of workspace configuration on physical stressors, mental WL, SA, and performance. Results The enhanced configuration significantly reduced physical stressors (rapid upper limb assessment; P Conclusions Our results suggest that an ergonomically designed workspace may minimize physical stressors and improve the performance of RTs.
Therese Shaw - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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rt prepare a Radiation Therapist delivered intervention reduces psychological distress in women with breast cancer referred for radiotherapy
British Journal of Cancer, 2018Co-Authors: Georgia Halkett, Moira Oconnor, Sanchia Aranda, Michael Jefford, Susan Merchant, Nigel Spry, Robert Kane, Therese ShawAbstract:The aims of this study were to determine whether a Radiation Therapist-led patient education intervention (RT Prepare) reduced breasts cancer patients’ psychological distress (primary endpoint); anxiety, depression and concerns about radiotherapy, and increased knowledge of radiotherapy and preparedness (secondary endpoints). Patient health system usage and costs were also assessed. A multiple-baseline study across three sites. The RT Prepare intervention comprised two consultations with a Radiation Therapist: prior to treatment planning and on the first day of treatment. Radiation Therapists focused on providing sensory and procedural information and addressing patients’ pre-treatment anxiety. Usual care data were collected prior to intervention commencement. Data collection occurred: after meeting their Radiation oncologist, prior to treatment planning, first day of treatment and after treatment completion. Multilevel mixed effects regression models were used. In total, 218 usual care and 190 intervention patients participated. Compared with usual care, intervention participants reported lower psychological distress at treatment commencement (p = 0.01); lower concerns about radiotherapy (p < 0.01); higher patient knowledge (p < 0.001); higher preparedness for procedural concerns (p < 0.001) and higher preparedness for sensory-psychological concerns at treatment planning (p < 0.001). Mean within-trial costs per patient were estimated at $AU159 (US$120); mean ongoing costs at $AU35 (US$26). The RT Prepare intervention was effective in reducing breast cancer patients’ psychological distress and preparing patients for treatment. This intervention provides an opportunity for Radiation Therapists to extend their role into providing patients with information and support prior to treatment to reduce psychological distress.
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pilot randomised controlled trial of a Radiation Therapist led educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to commencing radiotherapy
Supportive Care in Cancer, 2013Co-Authors: Georgia Halkett, Moira Oconnor, Sanchia Aranda, Michael Jefford, Therese ShawAbstract:PURPOSE Although patients receive information prior to commencing radiotherapy, they often experience anxiety and distress. We conducted a pilot randomised controlled trial to determine whether a Radiation Therapist led psycho-educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to radiotherapy is likely to be effective in reducing radiotherapy-related concerns, patient anxiety and depression. METHODS The intervention comprised two face-to-face consultations with a Radiation Therapist (one prior to Radiation planning and the other prior to treatment). Patients completed surveys at baseline, prior to treatment planning and on the first day of treatment. Outcome measures included the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Radiation Therapy Related Patient Concerns and Radiation Therapy Knowledge Scales. RESULTS One hundred and twenty two patients completed baseline measures. Fifty-eight patients received usual care, and 64 received the intervention. After the first consultation, patient anxiety was significantly lower in the intervention group (p = 0.048), as were concerns about radiotherapy (p = 0.001). There were no differences between groups for depression. Patient knowledge for the intervention group was higher after the first consultation (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This intervention is likely to be effective in reducing patient anxiety and concerns and increasing knowledge. Future research is required to test this intervention with a larger population.
Georgia Halkett - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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assessing the cost effectiveness of rt prepare a Radiation Therapist delivered intervention for reducing psychological distress prior to radiotherapy
Psycho-oncology, 2019Co-Authors: David Youens, Georgia Halkett, Moira Oconnor, Michael Jefford, Penelope Schofield, Cameron M WrightAbstract:Objective: To determine the cost‐effectiveness of RT Prepare in reducing breast cancer patients' psychological distress before treatment, compared with usual care. Methods: RT Prepare, an intervention involving patient education and support consultations with a Radiation Therapist (RT), was implemented at three Australian sites (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registration: ACTRN12611001000998). The primary outcome was change in psychological distress using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS); secondary outcomes were changes in quality of life (QoL) and additional health service use. Costs (2015 $AU) included consultation time and training delivery. Between‐group comparisons of HADS and QoL used generalised linear mixed models, and comparisons of health service use used negative binomial regression. Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) indicated mean costs per 1‐point decrease in HADS score. Sensitivity analyses explored variation in facility size and uncertainty in intervention effectiveness. Results: Among 218 controls and 189 intervention participants, the intervention significantly lowered HADS scores at treatment commencement (adjusted mean difference 1.06 points). There was no significant effect on QoL or additional service use. Mean intervention costs were AU$171 per participant (US$130, €119) mostly related to RT training (approximately AU$142 (US$108, €99). An ICER of $158 (US$120, €110) was estimated. Cost‐effectiveness improved in a sensitivity analysis representing a large facility with higher patient numbers. Conclusion: This study provides new data on the cost‐effectiveness of an RT‐delivered intervention to reduce psychological distress prior to treatment, which will be useful to inform delivery of similar services. As most costs were upfront, cost‐effectiveness would likely improve if implemented as standard care.
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rt prepare a Radiation Therapist delivered intervention reduces psychological distress in women with breast cancer referred for radiotherapy
British Journal of Cancer, 2018Co-Authors: Georgia Halkett, Moira Oconnor, Sanchia Aranda, Michael Jefford, Susan Merchant, Nigel Spry, Robert Kane, Therese ShawAbstract:The aims of this study were to determine whether a Radiation Therapist-led patient education intervention (RT Prepare) reduced breasts cancer patients’ psychological distress (primary endpoint); anxiety, depression and concerns about radiotherapy, and increased knowledge of radiotherapy and preparedness (secondary endpoints). Patient health system usage and costs were also assessed. A multiple-baseline study across three sites. The RT Prepare intervention comprised two consultations with a Radiation Therapist: prior to treatment planning and on the first day of treatment. Radiation Therapists focused on providing sensory and procedural information and addressing patients’ pre-treatment anxiety. Usual care data were collected prior to intervention commencement. Data collection occurred: after meeting their Radiation oncologist, prior to treatment planning, first day of treatment and after treatment completion. Multilevel mixed effects regression models were used. In total, 218 usual care and 190 intervention patients participated. Compared with usual care, intervention participants reported lower psychological distress at treatment commencement (p = 0.01); lower concerns about radiotherapy (p < 0.01); higher patient knowledge (p < 0.001); higher preparedness for procedural concerns (p < 0.001) and higher preparedness for sensory-psychological concerns at treatment planning (p < 0.001). Mean within-trial costs per patient were estimated at $AU159 (US$120); mean ongoing costs at $AU35 (US$26). The RT Prepare intervention was effective in reducing breast cancer patients’ psychological distress and preparing patients for treatment. This intervention provides an opportunity for Radiation Therapists to extend their role into providing patients with information and support prior to treatment to reduce psychological distress.
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reduced patient anxiety as a result of Radiation Therapist led psychosocial support a systematic review
Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences, 2017Co-Authors: Kelly L Elsner, Diana Naehrig, Georgia Halkett, Haryana M DhillonAbstract: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. Radiation Therapists (RT) are the only health professionals in direct daily contact with patients during treatment, placing them in a unique position to explore patients' psychosocial needs. This review aims to synthesise literature regarding the effect of RT-led psychosocial support on patient anxiety. In May 2015, we searched the following electronic databases: Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL, PubMed and Cochrane library. Radiation therapy-specific journals were hand-searched, and reference lists of identified studies searched. This review complies with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The search identified 263 articles, of which 251 were excluded based on non-English language, duplicate article or relevance. A total of 12 articles involving 1363 patients were included and categorised into three broad themes: 'Patient Perspectives' 3 articles, 'Patient Information and Education' 5 articles and 'Screening and Needs Assessment' 4 articles. Two publications referred to the same sample and data. Quality ratings were mixed, with one study rated 'high' quality, seven 'moderate' and four 'low'. Methodological weaknesses were identified in relation to workflow, sample size and responder bias. RTs have a role in psychosocial support through increased communication and information sharing, which can benefit both patients and staff. RT-led practices such as relationship building, patient education sessions and screening and needs assessments are feasible and can reduce anxiety.
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pilot randomised controlled trial of a Radiation Therapist led educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to commencing radiotherapy
Supportive Care in Cancer, 2013Co-Authors: Georgia Halkett, Moira Oconnor, Sanchia Aranda, Michael Jefford, Therese ShawAbstract:PURPOSE Although patients receive information prior to commencing radiotherapy, they often experience anxiety and distress. We conducted a pilot randomised controlled trial to determine whether a Radiation Therapist led psycho-educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to radiotherapy is likely to be effective in reducing radiotherapy-related concerns, patient anxiety and depression. METHODS The intervention comprised two face-to-face consultations with a Radiation Therapist (one prior to Radiation planning and the other prior to treatment). Patients completed surveys at baseline, prior to treatment planning and on the first day of treatment. Outcome measures included the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Radiation Therapy Related Patient Concerns and Radiation Therapy Knowledge Scales. RESULTS One hundred and twenty two patients completed baseline measures. Fifty-eight patients received usual care, and 64 received the intervention. After the first consultation, patient anxiety was significantly lower in the intervention group (p = 0.048), as were concerns about radiotherapy (p = 0.001). There were no differences between groups for depression. Patient knowledge for the intervention group was higher after the first consultation (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This intervention is likely to be effective in reducing patient anxiety and concerns and increasing knowledge. Future research is required to test this intervention with a larger population.
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development and pilot testing of a Radiation Therapist led educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to commencing radiotherapy
Asia-pacific Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2012Co-Authors: Georgia Halkett, Moira Oconnor, Michael Jefford, Nigel Spry, Penelope Schofield, Debra York, Moyez Jiwa, Mandy TaylorAbstract:AIM: To describe the development of the content and pilot testing of a Radiation Therapist-led educational intervention for breast cancer patients about to commence radiotherapy. Pilot testing consisted of testing the intervention for appropriateness, feasibility and acceptance. METHODS: A tailored intervention consisting of two face-to-face meetings with a Radiation Therapist (one before Radiation planning, the other before treatment) was developed using Level I evidence for preparing patients for potentially threatening procedures. Training of intervention Radiation Therapists consisted of two communication skills workshops. Radiation Therapists' consultations were tape-recorded and analyzed. The feasibility of the intervention was assessed by response rates and feedback from patients and Radiation Therapists. Patients completed surveys at baseline and following each intervention delivery. The main outcome measures were anxiety and depression, patient concerns and knowledge about radiotherapy. RESULTS: Response rates were considered acceptable. Twelve patients were enrolled and completed baseline measures. Nine patients completed follow-up measures following the second consultation. Preliminary results showed a trend for a decrease in anxiety and depression levels following the first consultation. There was also a decrease in concerns about radiotherapy and an increase in patients' knowledge. The instruments showed variability at baseline and discriminated between different responses over time. Radiation Therapists adhered to providing the interventions. Interviews with Radiation Therapists and patients demonstrated that the intervention was feasible and acceptable. CONCLUSION: This pilot study demonstrated that this new intervention is both feasible and acceptable to Radiation Therapists and patients. The intervention is now being assessed using a randomized controlled trial.
