Exploring the Influence of Respiratory Therapy Students in Interprofessional Simulations for Critical Care Patient Mobilization.

Abstract

Background: Early mobility (EM) of mechanically ventilated patients in ICUs is essential to improve patient outcomes, yet its adoption faces barriers. Interprofessional education (IPE) simulations offer a controlled environment for health care students to develop skills in airway management and foster teamwork, which are crucial for implementing EM practices. Including respiratory therapists in these simulations is particularly important, as they bring specialized expertise in airway management. Their involvement ensures that all team members are proficient in critical skills, enhancing patient safety and the effectiveness of EM strategies in ICU settings. Methods: This mixed-methods study included students from nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and respiratory therapy programs participating in a simulation-based IPE program. Data were collected through pre- and postsimulation Student Perceptions of Interprofessional Clinical Education-Revised Version 2 (SPICE-R2) surveys, reflective papers, postsimulation worksheets, and video analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Qualitative reflections were thematically coded, and video reviews assessed airway management practices. Results: SPICE-R2 scores demonstrated a significant increase in students' attitudes toward interprofessional collaboration following the simulation (P < .001). Qualitative analysis revealed three key themes: the vital role of RTs in airway management, the importance of advanced preparation, and the value of interprofessional collaboration. Video analysis highlighted variability in team composition and performance, with groups that included RTs generally demonstrating stronger airway management practices. However, challenges included limited representation of all four disciplines in reviewed videos. Conclusions: The IPE simulation enhanced health care students' attitudes and skills related to EM and airway management in an ICU setting. The participation of RTs heightened students' awareness of the critical importance of airway management in mechanically ventilated patients.