The training of therapeutic radiographers in dementia care: a literature review

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundIn the United Kingdom, 7·1% of people aged over 65 live with dementia. The National Dementia Strategy emphasises the need for a skilled workforce competent in dementia care. In all, 50% of cancer patients are in the 70 plus age group, suggesting that education of therapeutic radiographers in the care of the patient with dementia is key. The aim of the study was to review the literature regarding training of therapeutic radiographers on dementia and use the findings to make recommendations for training in the future in order to provide the best care.Materials and methodsA literature search of electronic databases holding peer-reviewed journals was conducted. Search terms were generated using the Population Intervention Comparison Outcome (PICO) method and retrieved articles were evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool. Additional evidence was accessed through snowballing and from grey literature.ResultsThe search failed to find any studies on dementia care education within a radiotherapy setting and only a limited number were found in the acute care setting. There appeared to be a large variation in the education provision for healthcare professionals on the subject of dementia care, both at the pre-registration and post-registration stages.FindingsThere is no evidence of a standardised education programme for healthcare professionals in dementia care. In the future, therapeutic radiographers are likely to see more patients with dementia but currently some may not have had the education and training to provide effective holistic care.