Use of simulation to enhance learning in a pediatric elective.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the impact on learning of adding a pediatric human patient simulation to a pharmacy course.


METHODS
Pharmacy students enrolled in a pediatric elective participated in 1 inpatient and 1 outpatient scenario using a pediatric patient simulator. Immediately following each case, reflective debriefing occurred.


RESULTS
Forty-two students participated in the simulation activity over 2 academic years. A pretest and posttest study design was used, with average scores 4.1 + or - 1.2 out of 9 on pretest and average 7.0 + or - 1.5 out of 9 on posttest (p < 0.0001). Ninety-five percent (40/42) of students' scores improved. Students felt the learning experiences were positive and realistic.


CONCLUSIONS
Pharmacy students' knowledge and application skills improved through use of pediatric simulation exercises.
Tofil
Nancy M
NM
Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA. ntofil@peds.uab.edu
Benner
Kim W
KW
Worthington
Mary A
MA
Zinkan
Lynn
L
White
Marjorie Lee
ML
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003142:Communication; D003198:Computer Simulation; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction; D004512:Education, Pharmacy / Q000379:methods*; D018961:Educational Technology; D006776:Hospitals, Pediatric; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007858:Learning; D008348:Manikins; D036501:Metered Dose Inhalers; D009035:Mothers / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology; D016544:Patient Simulation; D018802:Patient-Centered Care; D010593:Pharmaceutical Services; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D013617:Tachycardia, Supraventricular / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents