Comparison of pharmacy students' perceptions and attitudes toward spirometry first-hand experience versus paper-based
Rachel A Sharpton1, Frank S Yu1, Osama A Shoair1
13900 University Blvd, Ben and Maytee Fisch College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Tyler, Tyler, TX 75799, United States.
Pharmacy students who performed spirometry found it more challenging than those who used paper exercises. Experiencing spirometry firsthand increased appreciation for pulmonary disease screening services offered by pharmacists.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacy Education
- Pulmonary Function Testing
- Patient Education
Background:
- Spirometry presents technical challenges for patients.
- Community pharmacies show potential for spirometry services.
- Previous studies highlight benefits of community-based spirometry.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare pharmacy students' perceptions of performing spirometry.
- Evaluate attitudes towards implementing spirometry in various settings.
- Contrast hands-on experience versus paper-based learning for spirometry.
Main Methods:
- First-year (P1) and second-year (P2) pharmacy students participated.
- P1 students performed spirometry; P2 students completed paper exercises.
- Surveys assessed perceived difficulty and implementation barriers.
Main Results:
- P1 students found spirometry significantly more difficult than P2 students.
- Correct posture, breathing technique, and patient discomfort were key challenges.
- More P1 students (91.1%) viewed spirometry as a helpful screening tool compared to P2 students (54.1%).
Conclusions:
- Direct spirometry experience increases perceived difficulty.
- Integrating spirometry into pharmacy curricula enhances student insight.
- This can foster greater appreciation for clinical pharmacy services.
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