The U.K. Society of Radiographers (SoR) has published a guide for ultrasound practice educators (PEs).
While PEs can hold various titles and serve multiple roles as sonography learners, many know “very little if anything” about the PE role within their department, according to the SoR. Also, a recent survey revealed that only 12% had accreditation as an educator, the SoR noted.
“This SoR guidance document hopes to help raise the visibility of the practice educator role in ultrasound to support them to deliver high standards of clinical support for learners in ultrasound," said SoR Ultrasound Professional Officer Gill Harrison.
Sonographers are recommended to seek accreditation or reaccreditation for the PE role, the document, "Ultrasound Practice Educator Guidance," states. However, PEs can also include clinical supervisors, clinical assessors, clinical educators, clinical tutors, placement learning tutors, practice supervisors, student coordinators, and practice education facilitators.
The 37-page document provides guidance on the recruitment, career development, and progression from PE to lead PE. It also includes best practices, essential competencies, and effective teaching strategies tailored specifically for the ultrasound workforce.
National Health Services (NHS) England commissioned and funded the project as sonography faces a national shortage in the U.K., with vacancy rates being between 12.6% and 14.9%, the SoR noted.
As demand for skilled ultrasound practitioners continues to grow, the need for support for PEs will increase too, the SoR said.
Read the full guide here.
