Implementation and Mixed-Methods Assessment of an Early Mobility Interprofessional Education Simulation

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Respiratory Care
• Interprofessional Collaboration

Background:

• Prolonged bed rest and mechanical ventilation (MV) negatively impact patient health.
• Early mobility (EM) is a safe and effective strategy for patients with respiratory failure.
• Interprofessional teamwork is crucial for implementing EM successfully.

Purpose of the Study:

• To facilitate collaboration among health care students as an interprofessional team.
• To provide safe management and monitoring during an EM simulation for a patient requiring MV.
• To enhance student confidence and competence in delivering EM.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data.
• Health care students (n=123) from nursing, respiratory therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy participated.
• Pre/post surveys and guided reflection papers were used to assess perceptions and learning.

Main Results:

• A significant improvement (P = .037) was observed in students' perceptions of interprofessional collaborative practice.
• Qualitative analysis revealed positive student engagement with the EM simulation.
• Student reflections aligned with all four Interprofessional Education Collaborative competencies.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based interprofessional education effectively improved students' perceptions of collaborative practice.
• The experience enhanced students' understanding of the Interprofessional Education Collaborative competencies.
• Students reported perceived benefits from collaborating in the EM simulation for a patient requiring MV.