ASMIRT 2022: Unite - the land, the sea, the people. Annual Scientific Meeting of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy - 16th National Conference

Objectives: Simulation-based learning is a crucial educational tool for disciplines involving work-integrated learning and clinical practice.1 Though its uptake is becoming increasingly common in a range of fields, this uptake is less profound in diagnostic radiography and computed tomography. CT simulator software may be a viable option to facilitate the development of practical clinical skills in an effective, safe and supported environment. This project aimed to collect evidence on the efficacy of cloud-based CT simulation by exploring undergraduate medical radiation students’ experiences and insights in the simulation-based environment.

Methods: A cross-sectional mixed methods design was employed. Students in their third year of study undertook formal simulation CT learning using the Siemens SmartSimulator, before a six-week off-campus clinical experience. A pre- and post-clinical placement Likert scale survey was completed, as well as focus groups to gather qualitative data. Thematic analysis was employed to explore how the simulator developed students’ knowledge of CT concepts and preparedness for clinical placement.

Results: Survey scores were high, particularly in terms of satisfaction and relevancy. Focus groups drew attention to the software’s capacity to build on foundational principles, prepare students for placement and closely emulate the clinical environment. Students highlighted the need for continual guidance and clinical relevance.

Discussion/Conclusion: Students maintained that interactive simulation was inferior to real-world clinical placement. The integration of CT simulator software has the potential to increase knowledge, confidence and student preparation for the clinical environment.