Improving self-efficacy in behavioral health through interprofessional education

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Interprofessional Practice
• Health Professions Training

Background:

• Interprofessional education (IPE) is crucial for preparing health professionals for collaborative practice.
• Many students lack shared learning experiences, impacting readiness for teamwork.
• Developing self-efficacy in interprofessional competencies is essential for effective collaboration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate health profession students' perceived self-efficacy in core interprofessional education competencies.
• To assess the impact of simulated patient encounters on self-efficacy.

Main Methods:

• A pre/post quantitative survey design was employed.
• Participants included 36 students in clinical practicums in behavioral health settings.
• Students engaged in timed simulated encounters using standardized patients and completed a self-assessment tool.

Main Results:

• Post-survey responses indicated high agreement with items related to self-efficacy.
• Mean scores ranged from 4.64 to 4.81 on a 5-point Likert scale.
• A positive association was observed between student self-efficacy and the use of standardized patients in experiential learning.

Conclusions:

• Simulated patient encounters within an interprofessional learning activity positively impacted students' self-efficacy.
• The intervention enhanced self-efficacy in interprofessional competencies, particularly collaborative interaction and values.
• Experiential learning activities are vital for building confidence in interprofessional collaborative practice.