- Skelton, E., Smith, A., Harrison, G., Rutherford, M., Ayers, S. and Malamateniou, C. (2023). “It has been the most difficult time in my career”: A qualitative exploration of UK obstetric sonographers’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Radiography, 29(3), pp. 582–589. doi:10.1016/j.radi.2023.03.007.
- Skelton, E., Harrison, G., Rutherford, M., Ayers, S. and Malamateniou, C. (2023). UK obstetric sonographers’ experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic: Burnout, role satisfaction and impact on clinical practice. Ultrasound, 31(1), pp. 12–22. doi:10.1177/1742271x221091716.
- Kaur, E., Arezina, J., Bryant, L., Pollak, K.I., Harrison, G., Bender Atik, R. … Johnson, J. (2023). Adapting a communication coaching intervention for obstetric sonographers delivering unexpected news: A qualitative study. Ultrasound pp. 1742271–1742271. doi:10.1177/1742271x221147860.
- Skelton, E., Malamateniou, C. and Harrison, G. (2022). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinical guidance and risk assessments, and the importance of effective leadership to support UK obstetric sonographers. Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, 53(4). doi:10.1016/j.jmir.2022.10.003.
- Harrison, G. (2022). Radiographers at the forefront of patient safety: Ultrasound. World Radiography Day: WRD 2022 ISRRT Special Edition pp. 22–24.
- Pedersen, M.R.V., Kraus, B., Santos, R. and Harrison, G. (2022). Radiographers’ individual perspectives on sonography - A survey of European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS). Radiography, 28(1), pp. 31–38. doi:10.1016/j.radi.2021.07.018.
- Kalinka, C., Dickson, J., Evans, R., Morris, E., Parker, P., Walton, G. … Harrison, G. (2021). Letter to the Editor in response to the Position statement and best practice recommendations on the imaging use of ultrasound from the European Society of Radiology ultrasound subcommittee. Insights into Imaging, 12(1). doi:10.1186/s13244-021-01002-9.
- Harrison, G., Martins dos Santos, R., Kraus, B. and Pedersen, M.R.V. (2021). Radiographers in ultrasound: Motivation and role expansion. A survey of European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS). Radiography, 27(4), pp. 1185–1191. doi:10.1016/j.radi.2021.07.003.
- Harrison, G. (2018). Sonographer Workforce Developments. Synergy News pp. 12–13.
- Harrison, G., Harris, A. and Flinton, D. (2018). Can Teaching Ultrasound Ergonomics to Ultrasound Practitioners Reduce White Knuckles and Transducer Grip Force? Response. JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY, 34(5), pp. 413–414.
- Gibbs, V., Edwards, H. and Harrison, G. (2017). Independent reporting sonographers-could other countries follow the UK's lead 2017. Imaging & Therapy Practice, November, pp. 25–29.
- Easen, S. and Harrison, G. (2016). Communication skills training in ultrasound: Ultrasound practitioners’ views. Imaging Therapy and Practice pp. 30–35.
- Hawkes, R.A., Patterson, A.J., Priest, A.N., Harrison, G., Hunter, S., Pinney, J. … Lomas, D.J. (2016). Uterine artery pulsatility and resistivity indices in pregnancy: Comparison of MRI and Doppler US. Placenta, 43, pp. 35–40. doi:10.1016/j.placenta.2016.04.002.
- Harrison, G. and Harris, A. (2014). Postgraduate Medical Ultrasound Programme: Have we Flipped? Learning at City Journal, 4(2), pp. 25–38.
- Harrison, G., Mulloy, B., Harris, A. and Flinton, D. (2012). On-line case discussion assessment in ultrasound: The effect on student centred and inter-professional learning. Radiography, 18(3), pp. 160–165. doi:10.1016/j.radi.2012.03.003.
- Stoyles, T. and Harrison, G. (2006). A National Survey of Sonographers and their reporting Practices in the General Medical Ultrasound Field. Ultrasound, 14(2), pp. 109–114. doi:10.1179/174313406X93595.
- Harrison, G. and Mitcalf, R. (2003). Trends in Litigation Activity against Sonographers. BMUS Bulletin, 11(1), pp. 33–36.
- Harrison, G. (2002). Knowledge of Clinical Governance. A Pilot study. . Journal of Diagnostic Radiography, 4(3), pp. 127–133.
- Harrison, G. and Aitken, V. (1997). Fetal Biometry in Obstetric Practice. BMUS Bulletin, 5(1), pp. 14–20. doi:10.1177/1742271x9700500103.
Gill Harrison
Contact details
Address
Gill Harrison
M127
, Myddelton Street Building [M]
City, University of London
Northampton Square
London EC1V 0HB
United Kingdom
Northampton Square
London EC1V 0HB
United Kingdom
About
Overview
Gill is a Radiographer specialising in medical ultrasound and joined City, University of London in 1999. She previously worked as a superintendent Sonographer in the NHS and private practice in Hertfordshire. She is currently the Programme Director for the Medical Ultrasound programmes and Lead for Teaching Excellence in the Division of Midwifery and Radiography at City, University of London. She continues to practice ultrasound.
After training as a Radiographer in Lancashire, Gill moved to Hertfordshire and the Netherlands to work as a Radiographer, before training in medical ultrasound. After moving into education she has continued working as a Sonographer. She has taken an active role in professional accreditation of ultrasound programmes, as a lead accreditor for CASE (The Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education), developing clinical competency guidelines, training accreditors and is a member of CASE committee. As a member of the Ultrasound Advisory Group for the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR), Gill has been involved in reviewing guidelines and policies.
She has a keen interest in educational development, teaching ergonomics in ultrasound and breaking bad news to ultrasound and medical students and developing clinical teaching skills for ultrasound supervisors and mentors. She has also introduced a number of innovative teaching, learning and assessment methods to the ultrasound programme and has disseminated these innovations. Gill was editor for a number of obstetric ultrasound modules on the Department of Health and Society and College of Radiographers e-learning for Healthcare image interpretation package, has authored some aspects, developed on-line quizzes for and reviewed/updated all the obstetric modules.
Gill has been involved in ultrasound education in Uganda, on behalf of the British Medical Ultrasound Society. Currently she is chair of the Ultrasound Advisory Group and on secondment as Professional Officer (Ultrasound) for one day per week with the Society and College of Radiographers, external examiner for other ultrasound programmes and CASE committee member.
Qualifications
- D32/33 NVQ Assessors Award, University of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom, 1999
- MSc Medical Imaging Science (Ultrasound), University of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom, Jan 1995 – Jan 1996
Postgraduate training
- Diploma in Clinical Hypnosis, MindTrain, United Kingdom, 2002
- Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, City University London, London, United Kingdom, 2001
- Diploma in Medical Ultrasound, College of Radiographers, United Kingdom, 1993
- Diploma of the College of Radiographers, College of Radiographers, United Kingdom
- Certificate in Clinical Hypnosis, MindTrain, United Kingdom
Administrative roles
- Academic Misconduct Panels, School of Health Sciences
- Appeals Panel, School of Health Sciences
- Programme approval and review committee & periodic review, School of Health Sciences
- Programmes committee (rotational chair for pg), Programme approval and review committee & periodic review
Employment
- Lead for Teaching Excellence (Division of Midwifery and Radiography), City, University of London, Sep 2016 – present
- Guest Lecturer - breaking bad news, Queen Mary University of London, Jan 2013 – present
- Acting Joint Deputy Head, City University London, Jan 2008 – Jan 2009
- Sonographer Consultant, Private Practice, 2003 – 2006
- Associate Professor and Ultrasound Programme Director, City, University of London, 2003 – present
- Sonographer, West Herts Hospitals NHS Trust, 2000 – present
- Ultrasound Lecturer & Clinical Co-ordinator, City University London, Jan 1999 – Jan 2009
- Sonographer to Superintendent Sonographer, Hemel Hempstead & St Albans City Hospital, 1993 – 1999
Memberships of committees
- Member, School of Health Sciences Postgraduate Forum
- Member, School of Health Sciences Board of Studies
- Chair, Ultrasound Programme Student Staff Liaison Committee
- Chair, Ultrasound Programme Clinical Liaison Committee
Memberships of professional organisations
- Member, Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC)
- Member, British Medical Ultrasound Society (BMUS)
- Ultrasound advisory group member, Society & College of Radiographers
- Member, Society of Radiographers (SoR)
Awards
- Vice Chancellor's Award (2015) Excellence in Learning and Teaching
- Health's Got Talent (2015) Gold Award
- Learning and Teaching Conference (2014) Award for the best paper presentation
- Health’s Got Talent (2014) Bronze Award for teaching and learning innovation
- College of Radiographers (2012) Alan Nicholson Award
Best proffered paper by a radiographer at the UKRC conference - Student Voice Award for student support (2011) Student Voice Award for student support
- Moodle Launch Award (2011) Moodle Launch Award
- Centre for Educational & Academic Practice, City, University of London. (2008) Learning and Teaching award for curriculum development
Expertise
Geographic Areas
- Europe
Teaching
Educational Leadership
Programme Director: MSc Medical Ultrasound
http://www.city.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/medical-ultrasound
Postgraduate Modules
RCM021 - Developing Advanced Practice (module leader);
RDM004 - Fundamental Principles of Ultrasound Practice;
RDM030 - Gynaecology Ultrasound [15 credits, includes clinical competency];
RDM031 - Obstetric Ultrasound [30 credits, includes clinical competency] (module leader);
RDM032 - Abdominal Ultrasound [30 credits, includes clinical competency] (module leader);
RCM010 - Student Negotiated module (module leader for ultrasound cohort);
RCM012 - Dissertation module;
RCM120 - Work Based Learning in Practice (module leader for ultrasound cohort);
RCM121 - Accreditation of Prior Experiental Learning (module leader for ultrasound cohort);
RCM122 - Work Based Learning in Practice 2 (module leader for ultrasound cohort);
RCM126 - Student Negotiated module 2 (module leader for ultrasound cohort);
APM002 - MSc Dissertation module;
CMH003 - Comparative Imaging;
APM022 - Pathophysiological Principles of Advanced Practice
Undergraduate Modules:
RD2023 - Principles of Imaging Practice 2
Other teaching expertise:
Breaking Bad News,
Ergonomics,
Mentoring and clinical competency assessment,
Ultrasound report writing
Research
Research Overview
Gill has been involved in the development of web based teaching and learning resources, working within a multidisciplinary team to develop on-line training resources for providing feedback on clinical and communication skills
www.cetl.org.uk/learning/feedback_opportunities/player.html and communicating challenging information in obstetrics
www.cetl.org.uk/learning/ou_communication/player.html
As part of the development of innovative teaching, learning and assessment methods, Gill is keen to assess students' experiences using these interactive methods.
Grants
- 2009 - £15K CETL funded project to develop on-line resource to enhance feedback in clinical and communication skills.
Publications
Featured publications
- Harrison, G., Kraus, B., Martins Dos Santos, R., Noij-Rijkes, S. and Pedersen, M.R.V. (2021). The role of radiographers in ultrasound: A survey of the national societies within the European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS). Radiography, 27(3), pp. 761–767. doi:10.1016/j.radi.2021.02.003.
- Johnson, J., Arezina, J., Tomlin, L., Alt, S., Arnold, J., Bailey, S. … Hardicre, N.K. (2020). UK consensus guidelines for the delivery of unexpected news in obstetric ultrasound: The ASCKS framework. Ultrasound, 28(4), pp. 235–245. doi:10.1177/1742271x20935911.
- Harrison, G. and Beardmore, C. (2020). Ultrasound clinical teaching capacity in England: A scoping exercise. Radiography, 26(1), pp. 3–8. doi:10.1016/j.radi.2019.09.005.
- Harris, A., Harrison, G. and Flinton, D. (2018). Can Teaching Ultrasound Ergonomics to Ultrasound Practitioners Reduce White Knuckles and Transducer Grip Force? Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, 34(5), pp. 321–327. doi:10.1177/87564793187583.
- Harrison, G., Harris, A. and Flinton, D. (2018). Can teaching ultrasound ergonomics to ultrasound practitioners reduce white knuckles and transducer grip force? Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. doi:10.1177/8756479318758324.
- Harrison, G. and Harris, A. (2015). Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in ultrasound: Can you reduce risk? Ultrasound, 23(4), pp. 224–230. doi:10.1177/1742271x15593575.
- Harrison, G. (2015). Ultrasound clinical progress monitoring: Who, where and how? Ultrasound, 23(4), pp. 197–203. doi:10.1177/1742271x15600006.
- Parker, P.C. and Harrison, G. (2015). Educating the future sonographic workforce: membership survey report from the British Medical Ultrasound Society. Ultrasound, 23(4), pp. 231–241. doi:10.1177/1742271x15605344.
- Harrison, G. (2015). Summative clinical competency assessment: A survey of ultrasound practitioners’ views. Ultrasound, 23(1), pp. 11–17. doi:10.1177/1742271x14550238.
- Williams, C.J., Edie, J.C., Mulloy, B., Flinton, D.M. and Harrison, G. (2013). Transvaginal ultrasound simulation and its effect on trainee confidence levels: A replacement for initial clinical training? Ultrasound, 21(2), pp. 50–56. doi:10.1177/1742271X13481215.
- Harrison, G., Hayden, S., Cook, V. and Cushing, A. (2012). Improving health care professionals' feedback on communication skills: Development of an on-line resource. Patient Education and Counseling, 88(3), pp. 414–419. doi:10.1016/j.pec.2012.06.025.
- Harrison, G., Mulloy, B., Harris, A. and Flinton, D. (2012). On-line case discussion assessment in Ultrasound: The effect on student centred and inter-professional learning. Radiography, 18(3), pp. 160–165. doi:10.1016/j.radi.2012.03.003.
Publications by category
Conference papers and proceedings (2)
- Harris, A. and Harrison, G. (2018). How to be a good mentor and provide useful feedback. British Medical Ultrasound conference 4-6 December, Manchester.
- Harrison, G. (2018). Reporting Sonographers: Education for the future. NHS Benchmarking 20 September, London.
Internet publications (2)
- Harrison, G. (2016). Harrison G. Test: Image Interpretation - Obstetric Ultrasound: Introduction. Image Interpretation. HEE e-learning for Healthcare. 2016. Health Education England.
- Harrison, G. (2013). Image Interpretation - Obstetric Ultrasound: Nuchal Translucency. e-learning for healthcare / Health Education England.
Journal articles (19)
Media (2)
- Harrison, G., Harris, A. and Flinton, D. (2019). Podcast: Can Teaching Ultrasound Ergonomics to Ultrasound Practitioners Reduce White Knuckles and Transducer Grip Force?
- Harrison, G. (2019). Video interview: pilot co-pilot model of teaching clinical ultrasound.
Posters (9)
- Harrison, G. and Harris, A. Games with Aims. HEA Annual Conference 2017 Generation TEF: Teaching in the spotlight., 2017.
- Harrison, G. and Harris, A. Games with Aims. Achieving Excellence in Radiography Education and Research Conference, 2016.
- Neale, E., Chudleigh, T., Harrison, G., Nelder, J. and Baker, R. Cervical length assessment: How accurate are sonographers? 21st World Congress on Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Los Angeles. 18 – 22nd September 2011., 2011.
- Neale, E., Chudleigh, T., Harrison, G., Nelder, J. and Baker, R. What are the pitfalls of cervical length assessment? 21st World Congress on Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Los Angeles., 2011.
- Cook, V., Cushing, C., Goreham, C., Harrison, G., Hayden, S., Perovic, N. … Rogers, M. Learning to give feedback : using filmed vignettes to promote effective practice. 1st International Conference on Faculty Development in the Health Professions. Toronto, Canada, 2011.
- Cook, V., Cushing, A., Goreham, C., Harrison, G., Hayden, S., Perovic, N. … Rogers, M. Cook V, Cushing AM, Hayden S.M., Perovic N, Goreham C., Harrison G., Rogers M (2011)
Learning to give feedback : using filmed vignettes to promote effective practice. Council of Clinical Communication Conference. Manchester, 2011. - Cook, V., Cushing, A., Goreham, C., Harrison, G., Hayden, S., Perovic, N. … Rogers, M. Cook V, Cushing AM, Goreham C, Harrison G, Hayden SM, Perovic N, Rogers M. (2011) Learning to give feedback : using filmed vignettes to promote effective practice. Academy of Medical Educators 3rd Annual Academic Meeting, Grosvenor Square, London, 2011.
- Harrison, G. On-Line Case Discussions: Innovation? British Medical Ultrasound Society 42nd Annual Scientific Meeting, 2010.
- Cook, V., Cushing, A., Goreham, C., Harrison, G., Hayden, S., Perovic, N. … Rogers, M. Cook V, Cushing A, Goreham C, Harrison G, Hayden S, Perovic N and Rogers M (2010) Learning to give feedback : using filmed vignettes to promote effective practice. Poster Presentation. Association for Medical Education in Europe Conference. Glasgow, 2010.
Practitioners (3)
- (2017). Public Voluntary Register of Sonographers; What is it and how do you get on it? Synergy News, pp. 5–5
- (2006). Ultrasound in Uganda. Synergy News
- (2003). Clinical Risk Management Awareness in Ultrasound Departments,. Synergy, pp. 12–15
Other (2)
- Thomson, N., Harrison, G. and Beardmore, C. (2019). Response to the article by Mitchell, P., Nightingale, J., and Reeves, P. (2019). Competence to capability: An integrated career framework for sonographers. Radiography.
- Harrison, G. and Dolbear, G. (2018). Standards for Sonographic Education.
Professional activities
Clinical activity (2)
- External competency assessments of Sonographers
- Clinical assessments of student sonographers
Editorial activity (4)
- Edited 9 modules on the e-LfH image Interpretation programme (Obstetric Ultrasound) https://e-learningforhealthcare.org.uk
E-learning for Healthcare - Image Interpretation, Obstetric Ultrasound modules
http://www.e-lfh.org.uk/projects/image-interpretation/. - Co-managed the obstetric module development for the DoH / SCoR e-learning for health (e-LfH) project..
- Associate Editor for the journal Ultrasound..
- Reviewer for Radiography journal
Review book proposals for publishers, Reviewer.
Events/conferences (45)
- Diagnostic Healthcare Study day. (Conference) Peterborough (2019). Invited speaker.
Paper: Accreditation of ultrasound programmes
Author: Gill Harrison
Description: The role of CASE in accrediting ultrasound programmes - Diagnostic Healthcare Study Day. (Conference) Peterborough (2019). Invited speaker.
Paper: What makes a good ultrasound report
Author: Gill Harrison - CASE Accreditor training day. (Workshop) London (2019). Chair, Organising Committee and Panel Member.
Paper: Introduction to accreditation and overview of career development changes
Author: Gill Harrison - Towards 2020: Sonography Education and Career Development. Birmingham (2019). Session/Day Chair, Organising Committee and Panel Member. Invited speaker.
Paper: The role of CASE accreditation.
Author: Gill Harrison - British Medical Ultrasound Society 50th Annual Scientific Meeting. (Conference) Manchester (2018). Invited speaker.
Paper: What makes a good ultrasound placement? Past, present & future.
Author: Harrison, G.
Description: Clinical placements are one of the most important aspects of good ultrasound education. Without a good placement, ultrasound practitioners will be unable to develop necessary skills and competence to become safe, effective sonographers. The development of a wide range of skills takes place in the clinical setting, with practice educators supporting students to link theory to practice, ‘drive’ the machine; undertake, interpret, analyse and report ultrasound scan findings within their scope of practice; communicate unexpected findings and reflect on their practice.
This presentation will focus on the traditional ultrasound pathways (post graduate ultrasound education for health care professionals), to explore the past methods of educating sonographers in the clinical department, the current clinical training methods and consider some potential developments that might be needed to assist in the future.
It will be an attempt to provide a nostalgic glimpse of the ‘good old days’, a critique of present day challenges and a hunt for the crystal ball to gaze into the future. - British Medical Ultrasound Society 50th Annual Scientific Meeting. (Conference) Manchester (2018). Invited speaker.
Paper: Training capacity: Challenges and solutions.
Author: Harrison, G.
Description: The demand for ultrasound, along with other imaging investigations is increasing year on year (NHS England 2014), requiring an increasing number of ultrasound practitioners to provide the service. This demand, coupled with sonographer shortages (CfWI 2017), is putting a strain on clinical departments. It is clear that change is needed to facilitate good quality clinical education for sonographers and other health care professionals who need to learn the art of ultrasound scanning as part of their clinical role. Health Education England (HEE) are working with key stakeholders, including clinical staff, educational institutions, the British Medical Ultrasound Society (BMUS), the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR), the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) to review current clinical educational models and consider innovations to help resolve some of the current challenges.
During the presentation some of the current challenges will be discussed, along with findings from the HEE sonographer training group (STG) survey of clinical managers and discussions with education providers. A number of innovative solutions will be introduced and an update on the latest STG developments will be shared.
References:
CfWI. “Securing the future workforce supply: sonographer workforce supply”. 2017. [Online]. Available https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/review-of-the-sonography-workforce-supply
NHS England. “NHS Imaging and Radiodiagnostic activity”. 2014. [Online]. Available: https://www.england.nhs.uk/statistics/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2013/04/KH12-release-2013-14.pdf - Achieving Excellence in Radiography Education and Research. (Conference) Leeds (2018).
Paper: Service needs, capacity and innovations to extend clinical capacity for sonographer education: An on-line survey
Author: Harrison, G.
Description: Title: Service needs, capacity and innovations to extend clinical capacity for sonographer education: An on-line survey
Keywords: Ultrasound, sonographer, education, clinical capacity
Introduction: Sonography is a shortage occupation1, with evidence suggesting vacancies rates of between 5 to 25% in England and an increasing demand for ultrasound examinations.2 Ultrasound education is changing to meet service needs3, however one challenge being faced by education providers and clinical staff is the lack of clinical placement capacity4.
Method: An on-line survey was sent to ultrasound managers to investigate innovations being used to increase clinical capacity for educating sonographers. Higher education providers were also contacted via email and telephone for their views on innovations in ultrasound clinical education. Additional objectives of the study included determining current and future estimated sonographer shortages and placement capacity.
Results: There were 72 responses to the questionnaire. The average shortfall in sonographers was 2.65, with 5% of departments reporting a deficit of 10 sonographers. The predicted number of additional sonographers required to provide the service in five years’ time was an average of 4.6 sonographers, with 10% of departments anticipating they will need an additional 10 sonographers. Most departments were involved in clinical ultrasound education, with 51% of students being sonographers, averaging two per department. Several departments had additional capacity for teaching students, with a combined total of 45 places. A number of challenges were raised by respondents, particularly relating to issues of funding for student sonographers, balancing clinical and teaching requirements, staff shortages and the need to teach others, e.g. radiologists because of radiology shortages.
Discussion and conclusion: A number of different methods are being used to extend the capacity for clinical education of sonographers, these include extended working days and weekend teaching lists, simulation and peripatetic clinical educators. As ultrasound education is undergoing changes, to meet the increasing service needs, innovative solutions to increase placement capacity are needed. This study provides some ideas to assist education providers, clinical departments and stakeholders to meet these demands.
Numerical References *Please insert your numerical references here
1. Centre for Workforce Intelligence, “Securing the Future Workforce Supply – Sonography Workforce Review,” March 2017. [Online]. Available: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/597697/Sonography_workforce_review.pdf
2. United Kingdom Shortage Occupation List [Online]. Available: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-k-shortage-occupation-list
3. The Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education (CASE). ‘Assertions of the Standards to be met within through Sonographic Education,’ 2018. [Unpublished, in draft].
4. Parker, P. and Harrison, G. (2015) Educating the future sonographic workforce: membership survey report from the British Medical Ultrasound Society, Ultrasound. 23 (4), pp. 231 – 241 - Achieving Excellence in Radiography Education and Research. (Conference) Leeds (2018).
Paper: Empathy scores following an interactive service user session for sonography students: A pilot study
Author: Harrison, G
Co-authors: Harris, A
Description: Empathy scores following an interactive service user session for sonography students: A pilot study
G. Harrison and A. Harris
Division of Midwifery and Radiography, City, University of London, London, UK
Keywords: empathy, sonographer, service users and carer
Background:
Empathy and compassion are deemed to be important skills needed for working in the healthcare setting. Sonographers are expected to deliver difficult news to patients, often under challenging circumstances, without warning and in some cases when unsure of the actual diagnosis1. This study aims to assess medical ultrasound students’ opinions of a new interactive service user and carers session, which was introduced to the programme in June 2017. It also investigated whether empathy scores2 changed in response to the interaction with service users.
Method:
Students were invited to participate in the study by completing the Toronto Empathy Questionnaire2 before and after the service user session. Students and service users also completed a short questionnaire at the end of the session, for evaluation and to provide suggestions for future iterations. Students were asked to reflect on what they had learnt and how it might impact on their practice. Twenty three students (48%) participated in the study at a single institution across two cohorts.
Results:
Twenty empathy scores were valid. In the first cohort average empathy scores increased from 48.1 to 51.9 with 80% of students showing increased empathy score, whereas the second cohort average empathy scores remained the same pre and post session at 51.3, with 40% increasing, 40% reducing and 20% remaining the same after the session. The event met or exceeded students’ expectations, despite one student thinking they would not ‘get anything out of it’.
Conclusion:
Students valued the ‘candid and frank’ exchange with service users. Empathy levels increased or remained the same for three quarters of students, although the mean empathy scores for both male and female students was higher than published norms (44.5 – 47)2 before and after the session. Empathy can lead to improved trust between health care provider and patient, compliance with instructions and treatment, patient satisfaction and outcomes.3,4,5 Various ways to change practice in light of this session, which would impact on patient care and communication, were highlighted.
References:
1. Eason, S. and Harrison, G. (2017) Communication skills training in ultrasound: Ultrasound practitioners’ views. Imaging & Therapy Practice. January, pp. 25-30.
2. Spreng, R. McKinnon, M. Mar, R. and Levine, B. (2009) The Toronto Empathy Questionnaire: Scale development and initial validation of a factor-analytic solution to multiple empathy measures. Journal of Personality Assessment, 91(1), pp. 62–71
3. Kelm, Z. Womer, J. Walter, J. and Feudtner, C. (2014) ‘Interventions to cultivate physician empathy: a systematic review’, BMC Medical Education, 14 (1), pp. 219-219.
4. Riess, H. (2017) ‘The science of empathy’ Journal of Patient Experience, 4 (2), pp. 74-77.
5. Bell, H. 2018, "Creative Interventions for Teaching Empathy in the Counseling Classroom", Journal of Creativity in Mental Health, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 106. - European Congress of Radiology. (Conference) Vienna. (2017). Invited speaker.
Paper: Can or should US services be provided by radiographers/sonographers? Educational needs
Author: Harrison, G.
Description: Insights Imaging (2017) 8(Suppl 1): 1. doi:10.1007/s13244-017-0546-5 - Medico-legal issues in ultrasound reporting. Bristol (2016).
Description: Harrison, G. (2016) Medico-legal issues in ultrasound reporting. British Society of Gynaecological Imaging study day. 10th September 2016, Bristol (invited speaker) - Audit in Action. City University London (2016).
Description: Harrison, G. and Harris, A. (2016) Audit in Action. Health’s got Talent. City University London. 23rd June - Games with Aims. London (2016).
Description: Harrison, G. and Harris, A. (2016) Games with Aims. Learning at City: Promoting and Enhancing Teaching Excellence conference, 8th June 2016 (presentation and workshop) - Postgraduate Ultrasound Programme: We’ve flipped, have you? Glasgow (2016).
Description: Harrison, G. and Harris, A. (2016) Postgraduate Ultrasound Programme: We’ve flipped, have you? Higher Education Academy Inspire to succeed: Transforming teaching and learning in Health and Social Care Conference. 24th - 25th February 2016, Glasgow - CASE accreditors’ experience of accrediting a new direct entry programme. London (2015).
Description: CASE accreditor training day. - Simulation in Medical Ultrasound. Brighton (2015).
Description: Harrison, G. (2015) Simulation in Medical Ultrasound. Association of Simulated Practice in Healthcare (ASPiH) Conference. 4th November 2015, Brighton.(invited speaker) - Simulation in Medical Ultrasound.
Association of Simulated Practice in Healthcare (ASPiH) Conference. (invited speaker). Brighton (2015).
Description: Harrison, G. (2015) Simulation in Medical Ultrasound. Association of Simulated Practice in Healthcare (ASPiH) Conference. 4th November 2015, Brighton. (invited speaker) - Games with Aims. London (2015).
Description: Harrison, G and Harris, A (2015) Games with Aims. Health has got talent, City University London. 21st May 2015 (Gold award) - The Flipped Classroom. We’ve flipped. Have you? London (2015).
Description: Harrison, G. (2015) The Flipped Classroom. We’ve flipped. Have you? CASS Teaching and Learning Showcase: Innovations in E-Learning Conference, CASS Business School, London. 6th May 2015 (invited speaker) - Ergonomics hand-on Workshop. British Medical Ultrasound Society 46th Annual Scientific Meeting. (2014).
Description: Ergonomics workshop organiser.
This workshop will provide a chance to put into practice good ergonomic practice, with a facilitator to advise on how to reduce the risk of injury.
The workshop is relevant for anyone undertaking ultrasound and wanting to reduce their risk of work related injury.
Aims:
• Improve ergonomic practice.
Objectives:
• Scan in a small group setting and gain advice about posture.
• Review transducer grip and grip pressure
• Look at ways to adapt scanning technique to reduce risks of work related disorders - Ergonomics Workshop. BMUS, Manchester (2014).
- We’ve flipped. Have you? City University London (2014).
Description: Health’s Got Talent, City University London (bronze award) - The Flipped Classroom: New innovation or an old idea? UKRC Conference, Manchester (2014).
Description: Invited Speaker
Abstract:
In recent years due to technological advances, innovative curriculum design has been central to the developments within many health care education programmes. The Medical Ultrasound programme at City University London has been no exception. To enhance the face to face learning time within the part-time postgraduate programme we developed a method of blended learning, which involves on-line lectures and guided self study, supported by interactive film viewing sessions, group discussions, simulation and games within the lectures. Additionally on-line case discussions are used to share clinical cases from the clinical workplace and develop collaborative learning and assessment in the clinical modules. The term “flipped classroom” has appeared frequently in recent educational literature, this presentation will consider whether it is a new idea and how it has been used within the Post-graduate ultrasound programme.
The term “flipped classroom” has appeared frequently in recent educational literature. This presentation will consider whether the post-graduate medical ultrasound programme has fully flipped, review some of the student feedback and share ideas that could be used within other programmes. - The use of the “flipped classroom” in a blended learning programme: Have we flipped? Learning at City Conference London (2014).
Description: Learning at City Conference: Students as Partners in Learning?
Prize for best paper - How best to assess ultrasound clinical competency: The on-going dilemma. British Medical Ultrasound Society 45th Annual Scientific Meeting. Gateshead (2013).
Description: Introduction:
Clinical competency is an essential component of any ultrasound training programme, in order to ensure high standards of practice and patient care. The Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education (CASE) commissioned a project to devise guidelines for clinical competency assessment for CASE accredited courses, in the hope of providing a minimum standard. To inform the project work an online questionnaire was devised to ascertain the opinions of ultrasound practitioners, the results of which will be presented.
Method:
An online survey was sent to all UK ultrasound programme directors and CASE council members to disseminate to their academic and clinical contacts. Opinions were sought on a range of issue relating to clinical competency monitoring and assessment.
Results:
116 responses were received from a wide range of professionals, the majority being radiographers. Most respondents were involved in training, with the majority having roles as mentors and/ or assessors. Key findings suggested that regular formative assessment should be undertaken prior to final summative assessment in the workplace, with some element of external assessment or moderation of the final assessment.
The majority of respondents were in favour of a national minimum standard for clinical competency assessment, with 75% strongly agreeing that a national standard for competency assessments is preferable.
Conclusion:
Generally the ultrasound community responding to this survey were in favour of standardised clinical competency assessments, with internal progress monitoring and some external moderation of final assessments to ensure independence and consistency. - Transvaginal ultrasound simulation: can it replace initial patient training for doctors? British Medical Ultrasound Society 44th Annual Scientific Meeting, Telford. (2012).
Description: Williams, C. Edie, J. Flinton, D. Harrison, G. Mulloy, B. (2012) Transvaginal ultrasound simulation: can it replace initial patient training for doctors? British Medical Ultrasound Society 44th Annual Scientific Meeting. 10th - 12th December. (prize winner for best proffered paper) - Assessments: Do they assess learning outcomes. York (2012).
Description: CASE Accreditor Training Day, (invited speaker). - The accreditation event: roles and expectations. York (2012).
Description: CASE Accreditor Training Day (invited speaker). - Learning to give feedback: using filmed vignettes to promote effective practice. UKRC conference, Manchester (2012).
Description: Harrison, G. Hayden, S. Cook, V. Cushing, A. Learning to give feedback: using filmed vignettes to promote effective practice. United Kingdom Radiological Congress (UKRC), Manchester.
Winner of Alan Nicholson Prize for best proffered paper by a Radiographer at UKRC. - Straight or spline cervical length measurement – which is most reproducible. Brighton (2011).
Description: Neale E, Chudleigh T, Nelder J, Baker R, Harrison G
British Medical Ultrasound Society, 43rd Annual Scientific Meeting. - Cervical length assessment: How accurate are sonographers? Los Angeles (2011).
Description: Neale E, Chudleigh T, Harrison G, Nelder J and Baker R, 21st World Congress on Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology, 18 - 22nd September 2011 (poster presentation). - The difficulties in assessing trainees and trainer competence in ultrasound. London (2011).
Description: Harrison, G. Mulhair, L., Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (invited speaker). - Learning to give feedback : using filmed vignettes to promote effective practice. Toronto, Canada (2011).
Description: Cook V, Cushing A, Goreham C, Harrison G, Hayden S, Perovic N and Rogers M, 1st International Conference on Faculty Development in the Health Professions (poster presentation). Toronto, Canada. - Learning to give feedback: using filmed vignettes to promote effective practice. Manchester (2011).
Description: Cook V, Cushing A, Goreham C, Harrison G, Hayden S, Perovic N and Rogers M, UK Council of Clinical Communication Conference, poster presentation (prize winner). - Learning to give feedback: using filmed vignettes to promote effective practice. Grosvenor Square, London (2011).
Description: Cook V, Cushing AM, Goreham C, Harrison G, Hayden SM, Perovic N, Rogers M, Academy of Medical Educators 3rd Annual Academic Meeting, poster presentation, 26th & 27th January. - CASE Accreditor Training: The event. University of Sheffield (2010).
Description: Invited speaker, CASE accreditor training event - On-Line Case Discussions: Innovation? Brighton (2010).
Description: Poster Presentation. British Medical Ultrasound Society 42nd Annual Scientific Meeting, 28th - 30th September 2010. - Learning to give feedback: using filmed vignettes to promote effective practice. Glasgow (2010).
Description: Cook V, Cushing A, Goreham C, Harrison G, Hayden S, Perovic N and Rogers M, poster presentation, Association for Medical Education in Europe Conference, 4th - 8th September 2010. - Developing and evaluating a CETL faculty-development resource to improve formative feedback on clinical and communication skills. Queen Mary’s University London (2010).
Description: Harrison G, Cushings A, Cook V, Goreham C, Rogers M, Hayden S and Perovic N
Institute of Health Sciences Education research afternoon. - Patchwork Assessment in Ultrasound: Introduction of Another Patch. Help or Hindrance? London (2010).
Description: Harrison, G., Mulloy, B., Harris, A
Centre for Recording Achievement Conference - Enhancing Feedback in Clinical and Communications Skills: An on-line resource. City University London. (2010).
Description: Harrison G, Goreham C, Cook V, Cushings A, Rogers M, Hayden S and Perovic N
Learning at City Conference, - The skills for Accrediting. University of West of England (2010).
Description: Invited speaker CASE Accreditor training seminar. - Teaching the skills needed for breaking bad news in ultrasound. City University London. (2010).
Description: Harrison G, Harris A and Mulloy B
Teaching Clinical Skills Colloquium, - The Role of the Accreditor in CASE Accreditations. Society & College of Radiographers, London (2009).
Description: Invited speaker CASE Accreditor training seminar. - Clinical Assessment Development and Delivery from the Educationalist’s Perspective. Society & College of Radiographers, London (2009).
Description: The Consortium for Sonographic Education Open Forum Study Day. Invited speaker - BMUS Ultrasound Training Programme in Uganda. Society & College of Radiographers, London (2006).
Description: Harrison G and Drought A (2006). Current Approaches to Supporting Radiography in Developing Countries Study Day (invited speaker).
Keynote lectures/speeches (5)
- Can or should US services be provided by radiographers/sonographers? Educational needs. European Congress of Radiology, Vienna (2017). http://www.myesr.org/sites/default/files/ECR_Today_2017_Friday.pdf (page 10)
http://www.auntminnie.com/index.aspx?sec=rca&sub=ecr_2017&pag=dis&ItemID=116733 - Medico-legal awareness: The Expert Witness Perspective. Liverpool (2016). Harrison, G. (2016) Medico-legal awareness: The Expert Witness Perspective. 15th UK Radiological Congress (UKRC). Liverpool, 6th June 2016 (invited speaker)
- Work related musculoskeletal disorders: Can you reduce your risk? British Medical Ultrasound Society 46th Annual Scientific Meeting. Manchester (2014). 9th - 11th December 2014, Manchester (invited speaker).
During this presentation you will be given hints and tips on how you can reduce your risk of work related injury. You will gain an insight into some of the issues affecting ultrasound practitioners and look at what you can do to ensure a long and heathy career - Standardised Clinical Competency Assessments for all: Can it Happen? Brighton (2011). Invited keynote speaker.
British Medical Ultrasound Society, 43rd Annual Scientific Meeting,
http://issuu.com/kosmos.co.uk/docs/scientific-programme-bmus-2011?mode=window&pageNumber=1 - The difficulties in assessing trainees and trainer competence in ultrasound,. London, RCOG (2011). Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG) Train the Trainers Day.
Harrison, G. Mulhair, L., Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (invited speaker).
Online articles (5)
- Ultrasound ergonomics checklist for scanning and observing colleagues. (2019). Society and College of Radiographers ergonomics postser
- E-learning for sonographers: a key CPD tool. (2019). Society and College of Radiographers
- Case study 3.1: Pilot/co-pilot method of learning ultrasound clinical skills. (2018). Never too busy to learn: How the modern team can learn together in the busy workplace Case study 3.1: Pilot/co-pilot method of learning ultrasound clinical skills within the document produced by the Royal College of Physicians
- An Update of the Sonographer Workforce Developments. Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education. (2018). Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education
- An unexpected presentation in Chile. (2018). Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education.
Other (9)
- A lead accreditor for the Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education (CASE):
co-ordinate the accreditation or re-accreditation of ultrasound programmes in the UK.. - Lead a project on behalf of CASE (The Consortium for Accreditation of Sonographic Education), to develop national clinical competency guidelines..
- Key role in a multidisciplinary team developing on-line training resources for providing feedback on clinical and communication skills www.cetl.org.uk/learning/feedback_opportunities/player.html and communicating challenging information in obstetrics www.cetl.org.uk/learning/ou_communication/player.html.
- e-LFH Ultrasound Module, Brain and Head.
- Harrison, G. (2015) Accrediting non-traditional routes. CASE accreditor training day. November 2015 (Workshop facilitator) London.
- Chair of the Ultrasound Advisory Group for the Society and College of Radiographers..
- Lead accreditor for CASE (Ultrasound accrediting body).
- External examiner for medical ultrasound programmes.
- College of Radiographers assessor.