End of life simulation to improve interprofessional competencies: A mixed methods study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Interprofessional Education
• Palliative Care

Background:

• Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education Standards 2016 mandate "across the lifespan" and interprofessional (IP) team training for pharmacy students.
• Current educational offerings in palliative and end-of-life (EOL) care are limited, despite unique patient and team challenges.
• Palliative care requires empathetic and holistic patient management, highlighting the need for robust interprofessional training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an interprofessional (IP) palliative care simulation designed to meet "across the lifespan" and IP educational standards.
• To enhance student communication skills, role recognition, and appreciation for diverse healthcare provider perspectives in EOL care.
• To assess student perceptions of IP skills using the Interprofessional Socialization and Value Scale.

Main Methods:

• A low-fidelity, role-playing simulation involving pharmacy, physical therapy, nursing, and counseling students.
• Educational components included a presentation on anticipatory grief and active listening.
• The simulation was followed by a group debrief, and student perceptions were measured using the Interprofessional Socialization and Value Scale.

Main Results:

• Quantitative and qualitative data confirmed the achievement of the simulation's educational goals.
• Student reflections indicated improved teamwork and communication skills through the simulation.
• Participants reported that humility and active listening in team-based palliative care fostered valuable insights for future practice.

Conclusions:

• A cost-effective, low-fidelity simulation successfully met interprofessional education competencies.
• The activity underscored the value of diverse professional contributions in end-of-life care.
• This simulation model provides a practical approach to fulfilling accreditation requirements for IP and lifespan education.