Interprofessional Education Intensive Care Unit Simulation

Background

Physical and Occupational Therapy students consistently find it difficult to function in acute care settings due to the critical nature of patients, the need for teamwork and communication, and quick decision making required to treat the patient effectively and safely.

The aim of this research project and simulation is to provide meaningful and authentic experiences in a simulated, high stakes, acute care environment with interprofessional disciplines collaborating to perform early mobility with a critical patient (high-fidelity mannequin) and family member (Standardized Patient).

Methodology

Physical and Occupational Therapy students and nurse residents participated in this experience on three afternoons in April 2022. Learners were provided with onsite prebrief instructions. Learners were grouped by discipline and performed the simulation over two hours. A Learning Management System was used to administer a 20-item post/post tool to assess student attitudes and perceptions related to interprofessional education (IPE). A behavioral checklist was developed by principle investigators (PIs) based on learning objectives to allow students to self-assess and academic clinical faculty to assess student performance.

Results

A convenience sampling of PT, OT, and nurse residents (n=83) participated in the IPE simulation. Results were based on respondents’ answers to a Survey using a 5-point Likert scale and reflective questions. Nurse residents completed a separate evaluation to assess whether their desired learning outcome was met and whether the experience enhanced learning and the ability to think critically. Data was analyzed by the PIs and was quantitative in nature with both descriptive and inferential statistics reported. Overall, data showed the experience to be good or very good and enhanced communication and clinical skills with IPE team members.

Conclusion

This was our first interprofessional simulation. These outcomes emphasize the need for interprofessional education to continue across disciplines.

Reflections/Implications

Respondents found the experience promoted effective communication and respect among IPE team members and recognized how others' skills and knowledge complemented and overlapped with their own. Interprofessional simulation can be replicated at other organizations and provides a safe and realistic experience to practice communication techniques and clinical skills.