Partnering to provide simulated learning to address Interprofessional Education Collaborative core competencies

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Interprofessional Learning
• Simulation Pedagogy

Background:

• Interprofessional education (IPE) is crucial for healthcare professionals but often absent in undergraduate curricula.
• Simulation offers an effective method for collaborative learning among students from diverse health professions.
• Developing effective communication and teamwork skills is essential for healthcare providers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a simulated learning activity on undergraduate nursing and social work students' readiness for interprofessional learning.
• To assess changes in students' perceptions of interprofessional strengths and challenges following the simulation.
• To determine if simulation can integrate Interprofessional Education Collaborative core competencies into the curriculum.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving nursing and social work students in a shared simulated learning activity.
• Utilized the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS) administered pre- and post-simulation.
• Collected qualitative data on students' self-identified interprofessional strengths and challenges.

Main Results:

• Students from both nursing and social work demonstrated improved RIPLS scores post-simulation.
• Qualitative analysis revealed identified growth in interprofessional strengths and challenges, indicating learning.
• The simulation effectively engaged students in collaborative learning.

Conclusions:

• Interprofessional simulation is a viable and effective strategy for enhancing students' readiness for interprofessional collaboration.
• This approach can be integrated into healthcare curricula to foster essential IPE competencies.
• Simulation provides a practical platform for students to develop crucial interprofessional skills.