Training activity information
Details
Participate in correction of a mechanical aspect of an external beam treatment machine
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
- Technical understanding of mechanical calibration process
- Selection of appropriate QC following remedial work
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 basic mechanical components of an external beam treatment machine?
- What guidelines should be followed for this activity?
- What is the impact on the patient of not making this correction?
In action
- What tools or procedures are you using?
- What immediate choices are you making regarding adjustments or checks?
- Is the mechanical issue being resolved effectively through the actions being taken?
- Are there any unexpected difficulties or observations being made during the correction?
- What real-time feedback are you receiving or observing about the impact of the corrections?
- If the initial attempts are not successful, what other potential causes or solutions are being considered?
- Are you seeking advice or clarification from colleagues?
- Are you double-checking any steps or referring to documentation?
On action
- What were the specific mechanical aspects that were corrected? What tools or equipment were used during the correction process? Who was involved in the activity and what were their roles? What challenges or smooth processes did you experience during the correction?
- What did you learn about the mechanical workings of an external beam treatment machine? How are mechanical faults identified and diagnosed?
- What is the importance of timely and accurate correction of mechanical issues? How does this activity relate to ensuring the safe and effective operation of the treatment machine?
- How will this experience inform your awareness of potential mechanical issues with treatment machines? How will this change how you interact with or report mechanical concerns? What further information or training might be beneficial regarding treatment machine mechanics?
Beyond action
- How has your understanding of the mechanical aspects of treatment machines evolved since this experience?
- How has your involvement in this activity impacted your approach to or understanding of subsequent tasks involving treatment machines?
- How have the skills and knowledge gained from this experience since contributed to your ability to troubleshoot equipment issues?
- What have you learnt with regards to the impact on the patient?
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 1 |
Outcome
Perform required measurements to establish whether a treatment machine is suitable for clinical use and apply corrective actions where required. |
| # 8 |
Outcome
Practice effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide safe, patient centred radiotherapy treatments. |