Introductory and advanced pharmacy practice experiences within campus-based influenza clinics

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Public Health
• Immunization Services

Background:

• Campus-based influenza clinics offer a practical setting for pharmacy education.
• Integrating clinical experiences is crucial for developing competent pharmacy practitioners.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the creation, execution, and evaluation of pharmacy practice experiences within campus influenza clinics.
• To assess the impact of these integrated experiences on student learning and patient care.

Main Methods:

• Developed and implemented introductory (IPPE) and advanced (APPE) pharmacy practice experiences.
• Incorporated preparatory sessions, online learning, and direct patient interaction.
• Assessed third-year students' knowledge and attitudes before and after the IPPE.

Main Results:

• Provided influenza vaccinations to 2,292 (2010) and 2,877 (2011) individuals.
• Facilitated experiential education for 39 students (467 hours in 2010) and 58 students (656 hours in 2011).
• Demonstrated significant improvement in student knowledge and self-perceived attitudes toward immunization administration post-IPPE.

Conclusions:

• Integrating pharmacy practice experiences into campus influenza clinics is an effective educational model.
• These clinics enhance student direct patient care skills and knowledge of preventive health services.
• The model successfully supports both IPPE and APPE learning objectives.