Co-designing a device to guide breathing instructions during deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) radiation therapy (RT) for service users with hearing impairments

Mohanty, Sneha; Devine, Annemarie; England, Andrew; McEntee, Mark; O’Donovan, Theresa

Co-designing a device to guide breathing instructions during deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) radiation therapy (RT) for service users with hearing impairments

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Date

2026-06-16

Authors

Mohanty, Sneha

Devine, Annemarie

England, Andrew

McEntee, Mark

O’Donovan, Theresa

Publisher

Cambridge University Press

Published Version

10.1017/S1460396926100454

Abstract

Introduction: This study aims to investigate the key characteristics of a device to support patients with hearing impairments in utilising deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) radiation therapy (RT). Method: A qualitative approach was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were conducted both online and in person with 11 participants, including key stakeholders from a range of backgrounds: radiation oncologists, radiation therapists, medical physicists, RT service managers, industry vendors, and deaf service users. Data were analysed using thematic analysis, following the six-step approach outlined by Braun and Clarke. Results: Participants’ attitudes towards a device were explored across four key themes: • Device characteristics Shape and size Interference with treatment Associated challenges Thematic analysis identified several unifying themes, including the importance of co-designing a device incorporating both vibrational and visual elements. Overall, participants expressed a preference for a small and wireless device. Conclusion: This study identified potential characteristics for a device to support patients with hearing impairments in accessing DIBH during their radiation therapy treatment. A device incorporating both visual and vibrational elements may be optimal for addressing the diverse needs of patients in this cohort.

Keywords

Accessibility , Breast radiation therapy , Hearing impairments , Adjuvant radiation therapy , Radiation-induced heart disease , [Medicine]

Citation

Mohanty, S, Devine, A, England, A, McEntee, M & O’Donovan, T 2026, 'Co-designing a device to guide breathing instructions during deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) radiation therapy (RT) for service users with hearing impairments', Journal of Radiotherapy in Practice, vol. 25, e16, pp. 1-6. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1460396926100454