Interprofessional Learning in the Simulation Laboratory: Nursing and Pharmacy Students' Experiences

Abstract

Background: Using simulation as an educational method to learn collaborative practice requires the involvement of various professional education programs where the intention is to learn from, with, and about each other.Methods: This study describes pharmacy and nursing students´ experiences with interprofessional education. After interprofessional simulation, three focus group interviews with bachelor students were conducted. The data were analysed using Giorgi’s qualitative content analysis method.Findings: The students found that IPE closed knowledge gaps, change a stereotypical perception of professional roles, and enhance patient safety. Full-scale simulation appears to be an effective arena for learning clinical judgement, improving communication skills, and developing knowledge of pharmacodynamics.Conclusion: Interprofessional education may be necessary for professionals to enhance their ability to interact more effectively in the future.