Radioiodine Therapy Unit as a "No-Care" Ward – A First Experience Report

Ziel/Aim: Since 2006, the occupancy days and bed capacities in German nuclear medicine (NM) wards have decreased. In light of a persistent shortage regarding nursing personnel, our clinic at the University Hospital Jena has initiated an innovative staffing model to maintain patient care standards on the radioiodine therapy unit. This approach employs trained, dosimetrically monitored medical students to take care of benign thyroid patients who do not require intensive nursing intervention.

Methodik/Method: This report outlines the implementation of the “No-Care” model. 27 students were trained by experienced nurses, NM physicians and medical physic experts with each>10y of experience. Two medical students were assigned per shift in a regular 3-shift system. Patients were pre-selected by experienced physicians and patients with severe concomitant diseases were treated on a different ward. Students received comprehensive training, dosimetric supervision and are supported remotely 24/7 via telephone. A board certified NM specialist saw the patients every working day.

Ergebnisse/Results: The students were 19–25y old, with a majority of females (83%). Survey responses (23/27) indicated a high level of student satisfaction and confidence. Most students (92%) rated their experience positive, appreciating the paired staffing model for promoting mutual support and knowledge sharing. While primary responsibilities included patient communication, radiation measurements result sharing and administrative duties, 83% felt that these roles enhanced their clinical competence. Furthermore, 63% of students felt secure working independently, and 88% valued the constant availability of remote support, which they described as timely and helpful.

Schlussfolgerungen/Conclusions: The "No-Care" model on the radioiodine therapy unit offers a sustainable solution to the nursing shortage while providing practical experience for medical students. The job description for student service staff in nuclear medicine but must not include any nursing activities, thus adequate pre-selection of suitable patients is crucial. Feedback indicates high acceptance, with suggestions focusing on enhancing initial training to ensure consistency in care quality. This model could serve as a framework for other institutions facing similar challenges, with continued adaptation based on student feedback.

Publikationsverlauf

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
12. März 2025