ATTITUDES AND KNOWLEDGE WITH PARTICIPATION IN AN INTERPROFESSIONAL EDUCATION EXPERIENCE BETWEEN NURSING AND PHYSICAL THERAPY STUDENTS

UPP 119

Objective. The objective of this study was to understand nursing and physical therapy students’ attitudes and knowledge of other disciplines before and after participation in a patient-based case study with simulation experiences. Background. Interprofessional collaboration and teamwork is an integral part of promoting patient safety, improving quality of care, and improving health outcomes. Incorporating interprofessional case-based scenario experiences early in the curriculum of health science programs fosters this collaboration and allows students to develop an understanding of their own responsibilities as well as that of other disciplines. To understand the effectiveness of interprofessional education, students’ attitudes and knowledge must be assessed using valid and reliable methods. Methods. Participants completed a brief pre- and post- test survey consisting of an adapted version of the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale and several short answer questions. Results. 10 nursing students and 49 physical therapy students completed the pre- and post- surveys. Prior to the experience the students indicated they knew very general information about the other profession. Post experience they were able to articulate more specific information about the profession and their role in healthcare. Both sets of students indicated they learned about the scope of practice and recognized the potential to benefit the patient, improve communication, and foster teamwork through collaboration. Students recognized the benefit of improved quality of care for patients when professionals work together. Conclusion. Students showed increased knowledge of the other profession, appreciated the opportunity for interprofessional learning and are interested in having more interprofessional learning experiences. Grants. NA