Student-directed learning in a community geriatrics advanced pharmacy practice experience.

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Pharmacy
• Pharmacy Education
• Service-Learning

Background:

• Community geriatrics experiences are crucial for pharmacy students.
• Developing positive attitudes towards older adults is essential in geriatric care.
• Student-directed learning enhances practical skill acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a community geriatrics advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE).
• To assess the impact on students' attitudes toward older adults.
• To evaluate the provision of a student-directed learning experience.

Main Methods:

• A 6-week ambulatory care service-learning APPE was implemented.
• Students provided blood pressure monitoring and medication counseling to older adults.
• Pre- and post-experience essays were qualitatively analyzed to assess learning objectives.

Main Results:

• Initial student perceptions of older adults were often factual or negative.
• Students desired increased knowledge of geriatric diseases and medications.
• Final essays indicated students gained significant humanistic insights into patient care.

Conclusions:

• The community-based geriatrics APPE positively influenced students' attitudes.
• The experience provided valuable practice in setting and evaluating personal learning goals.
• This APPE fostered improved interprofessional skills and patient-centered care.