MRS253 Principles and Practice Radiation Therapy 1 (16)

In this subject, students begin their journey in the Radiation Therapy specialisation and consolidate their developing understanding in the clinical environment (2 x 4 weeks Practicum). Students will explore professionalism, ethics and law, radiation safety, patient care and communication along with a range of radiation therapy treatments and the underlying theoretical foundations for the respiratory, digestive, genitourinary and gynaecological systems as well as breast. Further to these topics, students will develop their understanding of oncological emergencies. Practical tasks undertaken in Radiation Therapy Planning Principles subject support the study undertaken by students in this subject.

Availability

Year-long Period 1 (31)
On Campus
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: MRS253. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences

Enrolment Restrictions

Restricted to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Radiation Therapy).
Not available to students who have successfully completed MRS252.

Prerequisites

MRS120 and MRS121

Subject Relationships

MRS251 - Related.
MRS252 Replaced by MRS253.

Incompatible Subjects

MRS251, MRS252

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to describe, explain and implement professional practice with specific reference to anatomy, physiology, pathology, physics and instrumentation principles, utilising clinical information management systems, determining appropriate procedures, patient assessment and due diligence, deliver appropriate care and stabilisation/reproducibility techniques, and manage / manipulate 3D datasets (MRPBA Domain 1);
  • be able to describe and apply understanding of practice in radiation therapy with specific reference to appropriate use of stabilisation devices, application of treatment simulation techniques, knowledge and application of treatment planning and dosimetry, CT imaging, and of treatment techniques according to approved plans (MRPBA Domain 1 and 1C);
  • be able to describe and apply the principles of radiation safety and risk management with specific reference to safe radiation practice, protecting/enhancing patient safety, ensuring safe operation of equipment, maintaining safety of self and others and safely managing radiation (MRPBA Domain 5);
  • be able to explain and apply the principles of evidence-based practice and professional learning with specific reference to critical thinking, analytical appraisal and reflective skills related to clinical imaging, problem solving and decision making (MRPBA Domain 4.1)
  • be able to recognise opportunities to develop new knowledge through research and enquiry, and contribute to the enhancement of the profession (MRPBA Domain 2.5 and 4.1d);
  • be able to identify, explain and implement professional and ethical conduct with specific reference to practising in an ethical, non-discriminatory, professional and legal manner, providing appropriate care, assuming accountability and responsibility, and patient advocacy (MRPBA Domain 2);
  • be able to apply digital technology and digital literacy skills for professional practice and research and demonstrate digital citizenship in online learning and professional communities (MRPBA Domain 4);
  • be able to perform quality evaluation of image datasets, identify limitations and recognise artefacts, including identifying and reporting urgent or unexpected findings (MRPBA Domain 1.7b and c);
  • be able to demonstrate communication and collaboration skills with specific reference to clear, sensitive and effective, culturally appropriate communication to create culturally safe environments and collaborating with other health practitioners (MRPBA Domain 3); and
  • be able to recognise the need for appropriate decisions about the care of patients before, during, and after the examination/treatment. (MRPBA Domain 1.7d; 2.3a).

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • The principles and practices of radiation therapy to a range of patient cases including those with disease in the pelvis, chest region and also oncologic emergencies;
  • Module 1: oncological emergencies; respiratory and digestive systems
  • Module 2: genitourinary and gynaecological systems
  • IN EACH MODULE THE FOLLOWING WILL BE INCLUDED:
  • radiation therapy treatment plans for a range of patient cases;
  • simulation of clinical treatment;
  • communication in a team with peers;
  • culturally safe environments
  • reflective practice as undertaken in a radiation therapy environment; and
  • development of information literacy and research skills as relevant to the practice of radiation therapy.

Workplace Learning

This subject contains a 40 days Compulsory Workplace Learning component.

Students undertake 2 blocks of 4 weeks clinical placement under the supervision of registered radiation therapists at approved clinical sites mapped with MRPBA. Placement sites include approved sites in rural, regional and metropolitan sites; and public and private departments.

Students are responsible for obtaining any necessary vaccinations, criminal record and working with children checks as required by placement sites; they are also responsible for the costs of accommodation, travel to and from placement sites and uniforms.

Students undertake pre-clinical practical activities in Charles Sturt laboratories and in clinical centres that partner with Charles Sturt.

InPlace software is utilised on placement by students and clinical supervisors for experience reporting and competency achievements.

Special Resources

Students attending compulsory workplace learning placements are responsible for all associated travel, accommodation and required resources. 

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: June 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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