The effectiveness of an educational intervention on adolescents’ understanding of radiation therapy

Introduction: Radiation Therapists (RTTs) are responsible for the delivery of radiation therapy (RT). More than half of all people with cancer receive RT as part of their treatment. This study investigates whether an educational intervention may alter adolescents’ understanding of RT as a treatment and the role of the RTT. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted in two Irish all-female secondary schools. Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires were designed and distributed to 5th year (n = 58) and 6th year students (n = 32) to explore the association between viewing two educational videos and changes in their understanding of radiation therapy. Students were aged between 16 and 18 years old. The first video focused on RT as treatment, and the second on the educational pathway to becoming an RTT. Due to the age of the participants, consent was obtained from both the student and their parent or guardian. Results: Most participants (93 %, n = 84) improved their understanding of RT as a treatment and awareness of the role of the RTT. Participants’ initial understanding of the difference between diagnostic radiography and RT was low, with 18 (20.2 %) students stating that they knew the difference. This increased to 79 students (88 %) at the post-intervention stage. Pre-intervention, five (5.6 %) participants stated they had considered RT as a career; post-intervention, the number increased to 31 students (29.6 %). Conclusion: The intervention successfully increased this sample's awareness and knowledge of RT as a treatment and potential career pathway. Implications for practice: Educational interventions show promise in this setting. This example provides a basis for future research to explore the optimal educational intervention content and whether there is an impact on RTT recruitment and attrition rates within education programs.