Task Analysis of Remote Afterloading Brachytherapy Cancer Treatment

Abstract

Remote afterloading brachytherapy is a type of cancer treatment that positions radioactive isotopes near tumors to control radiation dose and minimize exposure to medical personnel. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has received reports of misadministration attributed to human error and has therefore initiated a project to determine causes. This paper describes the first portion of this project, a function and task analysis. A representative group of hospitals were visited to determine how devices are used in clinical practice. Data were collected to assess treatment functions, tasks, and steps. From this analysis, critical factors were identified to guide subsequent human factors evaluations. User interfaces, operating procedures, staff training and qualifications, and organizational practices are to be assessed during the remainder of the project.

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