Impact of Simulation-based Training on Radiation Therapy Therapists Workload, Situation Awareness, and Performance

Abstract Purpose To assess the impact of simulation-based training intervention on radiation therapy therapist (RTT) mental workload, situation awareness and performance during routine quality assurance (QA) and treatment delivery tasks. Methods and materials As part of a prospective IRB-approved study, 32 RTTs completed routine QA and treatment delivery tasks on clinical scenarios in a simulation laboratory. Participants, randomized to receive (n=16) vs. not receive (n=16) simulation-based training had pre- and post-intervention assessments of mental workload, situation awareness, and performance. We used linear regression models to compare the post-assessment scores between study groups while controlling for the baseline scores. Mental workload was quantified subjectively using the NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). Situation awareness was quantified subjectively using the Situation Awareness Rating Technique (SART) and objectively using Situation Awareness Global Assessment Technique (SAGAT). Performance was quantified based on procedural compliance (adherence to pre-set/standard QA time-out tasks) and error detection (detection and correction of embedded treatment planning errors). Results Simulation-based training intervention was associated with significant improvements in overall performance (p Conclusion Simulation-based training might be an effective tool to improve RTTs performance of QA related tasks.