title: Comparison of low- and higher-fidelity simulation to train and assess pharmacy students' injection technique.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate 2 forms of simulation used to train and assess third-year pharmacy students' subcutaneous and intramuscular injection techniques.
  
  
  METHODS
  A cross-over comparison was used to evaluate an injection pad vs a patient simulator injection arm to train students in injection administration.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Students completed a survey instrument rating their proficiency, confidence, and anxiety before and after each form of simulated practice. All students demonstrated competence to administer an injection to a peer after using both forms of simulation. Students' self-ratings of proficiency and confidence improved and anxiety decreased after practicing injections with both forms of simulation. The only significant difference in performance seen between students who used the 2 types of simulations was in students who first practiced with the injection pad followed by the injection arm.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Student ability to administer an injection and their self-perceived levels of confidence, proficiency, and anxiety were not dependent on the type of simulation training used.
authors.affiliation: College of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108-6050, USA. Elizabeth.Skoy@ndsu.edu
authors.forename: Elizabeth T
authors.initials: ET
authors.lastname: Skoy
authors.forename: Heidi N
authors.initials: HN
authors.lastname: Eukel
authors.forename: Jeanne E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Frenzel
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D003479:Curriculum; D004512:Education, Pharmacy / Q000379:methods*; D004521:Educational Measurement; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization / Q000379:methods; D007273:Injections, Intramuscular; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous; D010593:Pharmaceutical Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D013339:Students, Pharmacy; D014612:Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage*
chemical_list: D014612:Vaccines
keywords: immunization; injection; simulation; simulator; vaccination