Incorporation of MyDispense, a Virtual Pharmacy Simulation, into Extemporaneous Formulation Laboratories.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Pharmaceutical Compounding
• Digital Learning Tools

Background:

• Australian pharmacy graduates require core competency in preparing extemporaneous formulations.
• Traditional laboratory classes separated formulation from the dispensing process.
• Time constraints in laboratory settings limit comprehensive student learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To integrate the dispensing process into extemporaneous formulation preparation without increasing laboratory time.
• To leverage virtual pharmacy simulations for pre-laboratory activities.
• To enhance student engagement and understanding of formulation principles and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Implemented MyDispense, a virtual pharmacy simulation, for pre-laboratory dispensing activities.
• Students completed dispensing for various extemporaneous formulations (solutions, suspensions, creams, ointments) prior to lab sessions.
• Prescriptions were provided at least one week before laboratory classes and at the commencement of exams.

Main Results:

• Students demonstrated increased pre-laboratory engagement, with all presenting printed labels upon entering the lab.
• Observed an increase in student-facilitator interaction focused on formulation principles and patient outcomes.
• Virtual simulation effectively prepared students for laboratory tasks, optimizing learning time.

Conclusions:

• Virtual simulations like MyDispense provide a realistic, guided learning experience.
• This approach overcomes time pressures in laboratory timetabling.
• It encourages early engagement with the dispensing process, allowing for deeper discussion of formulation and patient-centered care during lab sessions.