Perceptions of Makerere University undergraduate radiography students on clinical rotations in Mulago National Referral Hospital.

Abstract

Introduction: Clinical rotations are an integral component of the radiography programs worldwide as it is a practice-based profession and the effectiveness of clinical training is responsible for the competency level demonstrated by radiography students after qualification. Clinical rotations provide opportunities for radiography students to apply theory into practice. The effectiveness of the rotations is greatly affected by the setting of the clinical area. Makerere university undergraduate radiography students experience various circumstances that may facilitate or inhibit their clinical learning process in Mulago National Referral Hospital (MNRH). Aim: The study aimed at exploring the perceptions of Makerere University undergraduate radiography students on clinical rotations in Mulago National Referral Hospital. Methodology: A cross-sectional exploratory, qualitative was done with purposive sampling involving third- and fourth-year students because of their experience practicing in MNRH. Data was collected using semi-structured face to face interviews and was analysed thematically. Results: Out of the 19 respondents, 63.1% of the respondents were male and the 52.6% were in third year. Three major themes emerged from thematic data analysis: learning experience, effectiveness of clinical rotations in MNRH and challenges faced. Most factors related to the themes above positively impacted the students’ perceptions on clinical rotations but with also challenges experienced. Conclusion: Clinical rotations can be effective and beneficial to the students when a conducive learning environment is availed. The students’ reported mixed views on various aspects of clinical rotation in MNRH radiology department with more positives and the rotations meeting expectations of the majority. The positives included; availability and functionality of imaging equipment, various clinical cases encountered, assistance of radiographers in facilitating learning. Challenges reported included limited clinical supervision by university lecturers, time inadequacy for practicing some modalities and the relatively high number of students also affected practice-based learning. Recommendations: In view of the findings, the department of radiology and radiotherapy-MakCHS should review and increase the time for clinical rotations in CT, MRI and fluoroscopy. Clinical supervision by the university lecturers should be augmented and the radiographers in the clinical areas should be trained by the university in educational theories related to clinical supervision.