Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026

A Computerized Functional Skills Assessment and Training Program Targeting Technology Based Everyday Functional Skills
Published on: February 13, 2020
Second-year pharmacy students' perceptions of adhering to a complex simulated medication regimen
Timothy Ulbrich1, David Hamer, Kristin Lehotsky
1Northeast Ohio Medical University, 4887 Kelly Avenue, Rootstown, OH 44272, USA. tulbrich@neomed.edu
Objective:
To conduct a simulated medication regimen with second-year pharmacy students to determine their anticipated versus actual difficulty in adhering to it.
Methods:
Second-year pharmacy students were given 6 fictitious medications (jellybeans) and a drug regimen to adhere to for 6 days. Pre- and post-intervention surveys were conducted to compare participants anticipated vs. actual difficulty with adherence and changes in empathy toward patients.
Results:
The 69 (96%) students who participated in the study missed on average 16% of all simulated medication doses and noted that adhering to the complex medication regimen was more difficult than they had anticipated. Eighty-nine percent of students agreed or strongly agreed the project was valuable in developing empathy towards patients taking complex medication regimens.
Conclusions:
Pharmacy students participating in a simulated medication regimen missed a notable number of doses and reported a greater level of empathy for patients taking complex medication regiments. Finding meaningful ways to integrate adherence into the curriculum is essential.
Related Concept Videos
Dosage Regimens: Designs and Approaches
Drug Dosage Regimen: Overview
Typically, the starting dose and dosing interval are guided by the manufacturer's recommendations based on clinical trials conducted during and after drug...
Drug Accumulation During Multiple Dosing: Repetitive IV Injections
Drug Dosing: Geriatric Patients
Dosage Regimens: Partial Pharmacokinetic Parameters
Drug Therapy
Antianxiety Medications

