2021 Neurointervention Unit Annual Report

Rampart radiation protection system

FLASH Program Participants

Improved radiation protection for Neurointervention Unit

Neurointervention surgeon completes FLASH program

In 2021, RNSH purchased a Rampart radiation protection system to be used by the NI Unit. This is a conformable radiation protection shield that removes the need for the operator and scrub team to wear heavy lead radiation protection garments for most procedures. It is estimated that angiographic operating theatre staff have up to a 700% increased incidence of cervical and lumbar spine injury. The installation of this system will not only reduce the risk of injury, but also help staff members who have a variety of spine and other musculoskeletal issues. This is only the second Rampart device installed in Australia and the first to be used in neurointerventional procedures worldwide. The RNSH NI Unit is very thankful for this upgrade and for the prioritisation of workplace safety and staff wellbeing.

In 2021, Dr Alice Ma, a proceduralist within the NI Unit at RNSH took part in the pilot Fostering Leadership Across Systems in Health (FLASH) program. FLASH was designed by a diverse inter-professional team and aims to bridge the gap between clinicians and leaders within the healthcare system, specifically targeting early career consultants, and was developed around the Australian Health Leadership LEADS framework. The program was conducted over a 7-month period, with monthly workshops - this was initially delivered online due to COVID restrictions, but participants were able to enjoy two full-day face to face sessions as restrictions eased. Dr Ma said the program gave her an opportunity to network while learning valuable leadership skills. “It was a great opportunity to network with colleagues at a similar career level,” she said.

“I also gained some insights into leadership and management skills that are not always part of medical training.” As part of the program, Dr Ma spent time shadowing Deborah Willcox, Chief Executive, NSLHD and Dr Adam Rehak, Clinical Director, Division of Surgery and Anaesthesia, RNSH. “Being able to work alongside and shadow leaders like Deb and Dr Rehak was a highlight of the program for me,” she said. Dr Ma said the program would be beneficial to any early-career clinicians looking to develop skills that are not necessarily taught in medical school. “I highly recommend the program to any early-career clinicians as it offers different perspectives on the delivery of medical services and will help develop skills as you take on greater responsibility as a consultant,” she said.

10

11

Neurointervention Unit Annual Report 2021

Neurointervention Unit Annual Report 2021

Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online