An innovative clinical interprofessional education experience to advance knowledge and skill in communication with aphasic patients: A randomized controlled pilot study

Background

Because of its impact on communication, aphasia increases patients’ risk for poor healthcare outcomes. Healthcare teams should be equipped to effectively serve this population.

Purpose

The primary aim was to pilot the effectiveness of an aphasia communication.

partner training program for healthcare students by examining changes in knowledge and behavior. A secondary aim assessed learners' understanding of other healthcare professionals’ roles and responsibilities.

Method

Students in pharmacy, physician assistant, and occupational therapy were randomly assigned to experimental or control groups. The former participated in didactic training with speech-language pathology students and mentored interactions with aphasic patients. Both groups completed pre-/post-training knowledge assessments and participated in semi-structured patient interactions.

Discussion

The clinical IPE experience resulted in statistically significant differences in aphasia knowledge and associated behaviors. Additionally, learners’ understanding of healthcare professions improved.

Conclusions

Clinical IPE experiences are effective at improving clinical communication skills and increasing knowledge of language-impaired populations.