Program Overview

MRS351 Radiation Therapy 2

This subject is designed to extend the radiation therapy knowledge and practical skills by considering more advanced radiation therapy techniques. Students will constructively reflect on clinical practice experiences, and utilising research skills, ensure an evidence-based approach to their work, while also reflecting on their own personal and professional experiences. The theory is supported by two 4 week clinical practicums.

Subject Outlines

Current subject outlines and assessment tasks are updated each session.

Availability

The subject is available in two sessions:

• Session 1 (30) on the Wagga Wagga Campus
• Session 2 (60) on the Wagga Wagga Campus

Subject Information

Grading System

The grading system for this subject is HD/FL.

Duration

The subject spans two sessions.

School

The subject is part of the School of Dentistry and Health Sciences.

Enrolment Restrictions

The subject is restricted to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (with Specialisations).

Prerequisites

The prerequisite for this subject is MRS251.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

• Discuss and critically analyse the principles and practice of radiation therapy as applied to a range of cancers using appropriate scientific language
• Demonstrate effective design and evaluation of a range of radiation therapy techniques using specific radiation therapy planning software
• Demonstrate an understanding of treatment and planning for more advanced techniques including but not limited to the head & neck and the use of Electron Beam Therapy
• Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively with peers, and demonstrate reflective practice
• Continue to construct an electronic ePortfolio in which to store, showcase and reflect on radiation therapy treatment plans created, including active participation in self and peer review
  • Clinical practicum component:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities of clinical practice
  • Demonstrate appropriate verbal and written communication strategies
  • Demonstrate appropriate professional behaviour
  • Maintain a portfolio identifying their learning during their practicum experiences and relate these experiences to theoretical (university based) learning
  • Plan and conduct appropriate procedures
  • Achieve a satisfactory rating for all competencies listed in the clinical assessment manual for this level
  • Apply appropriate ethical and legal standards
  • Understand the importance of due care and diligence
  • Recognise the factors influencing patients responses to illness
  • Understand the relevant regulatory and legislative framework
  • Demonstrate command and application of radiation safety principles in the clinical setting under immediate supervision

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

• The principles and practices that apply to more advanced radiation therapy techniques
• Radiation therapy treatment plans for a more advanced range of treatment regimes and patient cases
• Simulation of more advanced clinical treatment
• Communication in a team with peers and with other health professionals
• Reflective practice as undertaken in a radiation therapy environment
• Further development of information literacy and research skills as relevant in the practice of radiation therapy

Workplace Learning

This subject contains a 40-day compulsory workplace learning component. Upon successful completion of the practicum component of this subject, students should:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities of clinical practice
• Demonstrate appropriate verbal and written communication strategies
• Demonstrate appropriate professional behaviour
• Maintain a portfolio identifying their learning through self-reflection during their practicum experiences Upon successful completion of the theoretical university-based learning, students should:
• Plan and conduct appropriate procedures in a setting of moderate supervision
• Achieve a satisfactory rating for all competencies listed in the clinical assessment manual for this level
• Apply appropriate ethical and legal standards
• Understand the importance of due care and diligence
• Recognise the factors influencing patients' responses to illness
• Understand the relevant regulatory and legislative framework
• Demonstrate command and application of radiation safety principles in the clinical setting

Special Resources

Students are required to travel to clinical sites around Australia to complete the practicum component of this subject.