Training activity information
Details
Perform in vivo dosimetry, analyse and interpret results
Type
Developmental training activity (DTA)
Evidence requirements
Evidence the activity has been undertaken by the trainee.
Reflection on the activity at one or more time points after the event including learning from the activity and/or areas of the trainees practice for development.
An action plan to implement learning and/or to address skills or knowledge gaps identified.
Considerations
- Calibration of measurement device
- Limitations and uncertainties
Reflective practice guidance
The guidance below is provided to support reflection at different time points, providing you with questions to aid you to reflect for this training activity. They are provided for guidance and should not be considered as a mandatory checklist. Trainees should not be expected to provide answers to each of the guidance questions listed.
Before action
- What are the different types of in vivo dosimeters used in the department (e.g., diodes, MOSFETs)?
- How are these dosimeters applied to the patient?
- What is the procedure for taking measurements and recording the data?
- How are the measured doses compared to the planned doses?
- What are the typical action levels and how should deviations be investigated?
In action
- As you perform the in vivo dosimetry, are you ensuring correct placement and operation of the dosimeters?
- During the analysis, are you comparing the measured dose with the planned dose?
- If there are discrepancies, are you considering potential reasons such as patient setup variations or anatomical changes?
On action
- How did you perform the in vivo dosimetry measurements? What were the measured doses compared to the planned doses?
- What did you learn about the factors that can cause discrepancies between planned and delivered doses? How did you interpret the results?
- How will this experience enhance your understanding of patient-specific quality assurance and the importance of in vivo dosimetry?
- What further practical experience in this area would be beneficial?
Beyond action
- Since performing in vivo dosimetry, have you had opportunities to review or analyse in vivo data in other clinical scenarios? How has your ability to interpret these results improved?
- How has this experience influenced your appreciation of the uncertainties involved in treatment delivery and the importance of patient-specific QA?
- How have your skills in in vivo dosimetry contributed to your role in ensuring accurate dose delivery and investigating any unexpected dose deviations?
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 3 |
Outcome
Apply appropriate guidance, regulations and codes of practice to ensure patient safety in all elements of practice. |
| # 6 |
Outcome
Develop and appraise external beam radiotherapy treatment plans for clinical use. |
| # 7 |
Outcome
Practice effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team. |