A Pilot Study on Enhancing Clinical Preparedness of Diagnostic Radiography Students Through High-Fidelity Simulation E-Learning

<p dir="ltr">Introduction: The integration of e-learning into healthcare education, particularly within medical imaging and radiation therapy, has demonstrated significant advantages in knowledge acquisition, skill enhancement, and increased self-confidence among learners. However, due to limited exposure to real clinical settings, the transition from theoretical knowledge to practical application in clinical settings remains challenging for diagnostic radiography (DR) students, particularly for first-year students. High-fidelity simulation (HFS), which replicates real-world clinical scenarios, offers a promising solution to bridge this gap. HFS provides a realistic, interactive environment where students can practice and refine their skills without the risks associated with real patient interactions, allowing students to engage in imaging procedures and decision-making processes in a controlled and supportive setting. This pilot study evaluated the effectiveness of the Clinical Placement Readiness Evaluation Program (CPREP), a high-fidelity simulation e-learning program, designed to better prepare DR students for their first clinical placement. CPREP aimed to enhance DR students' clinical decision-making abilities, self-efficacy, and confidence for their first clinical placement through a controlled, risk-free high-fidelity simulation e-learning program. </p><p dir="ltr">Methods: Twenty-four DR students (Year Two) from the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) preparing for their first clinical placements were recruited for the pilot study. The study employed a pre-test/post-test design, measuring students' self-efficacy and self-confidence before and after participation in CPREP. CPREP utilizes advanced multimedia technology, including 3D imaging and interactive case studies, to create realistic clinical scenarios. Delivered through a web-based platform, the program allowed students to navigate through three case scenarios that they will encounter during their first clinical placement. Data collection included both quantitative measures, such as Likert scale ratings, and qualitative feedback through open-ended questions. Descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon signed-rank test and thematic analysis were performed to analyse results. </p><p dir="ltr">Results: Participation in CPREP led to improvements in students' readiness for clinical placements, as evidenced by increased self-efficacy and confidence levels in technical knowledge, imaging processes and interpretation. The pilot study's findings will support expanding CPREP to more SIT DR students and contribute to the enhancement of SIT's diagnostic radiography curriculum in preparing students for the demands of clinical environments. </p><p dir="ltr">Conclusion: High-fidelity simulation represents a valuable tool in healthcare education, offering realistic and risk-free environments for students to develop and hone their clinical skills. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, embracing innovative approaches like CPREP will be crucial in preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals. The CPREP initiative exemplifies how such simulations can be effectively integrated into diagnostic radiography education to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.</p>