Browsing by Author "Barbosa, B."
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- An investigation of digital skills of therapeutic radiographers/radiation therapists: A european survey of proficiency level and future educational needsPublication . Barbosa, B.; Oliveira, C.; Bravo, I.; Couto, G.; Antunes, L.; McFadden, S.; Hughes, C.; McClure, P.; Rodrigues, J.; Dias, A.G.This study aims to assess the proficiency level of digital skills, the factors influencing that level and the training needs of Therapeutic Radiographers/Radiation Therapists (TR/RTTs), due to the differences in technology availability and accessibility, variations in the regulation and education of TR/RTTs in European countries, and the lack of a digital skills framework. An online survey was distributed to TR/RTTs working in Europe to capture their self assessment of proficiency levels of digital skills when performing their clinical role. Information was also gathered regarding training, work experience and level of information and communication tech nology (ICT) skills. Quantitative measures were analysed using descriptive statistics and correlation between variables, and qualitative responses using thematic analysis. 101 respondents from 13 European countries completed the survey. Digital skills in treatment planning followed by management and research were the least developed skills, while the most developed were transversal digital skills followed by digital skills in treatment delivery. The Radio therapy areas of practice where TR/RTT has experience (e.g. Planning Image, Treatment Planning, Treatment), as well as the level of generic ICT skills (communication, content creation and problem solving), was related to the level of proficiency of TR/RTT digital skills. Greater scope of practice and level of generic ICT were associated with a higher level of TR/RTT digital skills. Thematic analysis allowed the identification of new sub-themes to be included in the training of TR/RTTs. Education and training of TR/RTTs should be improved and adapted to the current needs of digitalisation to avoid differences in digital proficiency levels. Implications for practice: Aligning TR/RTTs’ digital skill sets with emerging digitalisation will improve current practice and ensure the best care to all RT patients.
- Digital skills of therapeutic radiographers/radiation therapists – Document analysis for a European educational curriculumPublication . Barbosa, B.; Bravo, I.; Oliveira, C.; Antunes, L.; Couto, J. G.; McFadden, S.; Hughes, C.; McClure, P.; Dias, A. G.It is estimated that around 50% of cancer patients require Radiotherapy (RT) at some point during their treatment, hence Therapeutic Radiographers/Radiation Therapists (TR/RTTs) have a key role to play in patient management. It is essential for TR/RTTs to keep abreast with new technologies and continuously develop the digital skills necessary for safe RT practice. The RT profession and education is not regulated at European Union level, which leads to heterogeneity in the skills developed and practised among countries. This study aimed to explore the white and grey literature to collate data on the relevant digital skills required for TR/RTTs practice.
- Solving Quality Problems in Tyre Production Preparation Process: A Practical ApproachPublication . Barbosa, B.; Pereira, Maria Teresa; Silva, F.J.G.; R.D.S.G., CampilhoThis work was carried out at Continental tyre factory in Portugal, regarding the APEX machines production process, with the main goal of improving of their performance and product quality rate. Main possible causes of defect generation were identified and proposals to enhance the functioning of the bead APEX production process were also carried out. By applying Six Sigma, variables that influence the quality of the production were identified. DMAIC cycle (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Control) was applied in the process analysis, enabling a structured analysis and the identification of different causes that negatively affect the process studied and consequently allowed the identification of opportunities for improvement. With the help of the DMAIC method, a series of experiments were developed in order to achieve improvements in product quality rate and process control and stabilization.