Development, implementation and evaluation of the RIPE model for interprofessional collaboration utilizing high fidelity manikins

Enhancing pre-licenced pharmacists' communication and interprofessional collaboration utilizing the RIPE model of interprofessional learning: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Interacting and engaging with other health care professionals can enhance communication and collaboration within the multidisciplinary healthcare team, contributing to improved patient safety and patient outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the student learning experience utilizing the Reflective Interprofessional Education Model (RIPE) model of interprofessional learning.

METHODS

Qualitative study utilizing data from seven (7) focus groups sessions. Data were transcribed verbatim using a transcribing service; and analyzed using Braun and Clarke's 6-phase process for thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Fifty-five Master of Pharmacy pre-licenced students (male n = 25; female: n = 30) participated in the study. The 7 focus groups consisted of 6-8 participants ranging between 18 and 28 min in duration. Thematic analysis generated four key themes: (i) Time management: managing interruptions in a time pressured acute care environment is challenging but necessary; (ii) Learning the Lingo: patient-centered communicating and engaging patients and family in care; (iii) Communication: developing interprofessional communication as a vital skill for healthcare professionals; and (iv) Teamwork: recognizing the importance of teamwork, relationships and respect.

CONCLUSIONS

Students found the simulated, acute care setting challenging for effective communication and collaboration with other health professional team members. It was also perceived that critical patient information can be lost or misinterpreted if there is poor interprofessional communication and collaboration, contributing to iatrogenesis and poor patient outcomes. Effective collaboration was perceived to be beneficial to enhancing confidence with engagement and communication, appreciation and respect for the expertise of other healthcare professions.

"Two heads are better than one"- pharmacy and nursing students' perspectives on interprofessional collaboration utilizing the RIPE model of learning

BACKGROUND

Simulation is an effective strategy for enhancing interprofessional education (IPE) and collaboration (IPC).

OBJECTIVES

A novel interprofessional learning model, The RIPE Model (Reflective Interprofessional Education Model) was applied for a pilot study during a simulation laboratory aimed to (i) enhance pharmacy and nursing students' understanding of the roles and responsibilities of professions within the multidisciplinary healthcare team; and (ii) enhance the importance of working collaboratively in team-based care.

METHODS

The pilot study using a mixed-methods approach, including the administration of a 6-item student survey on a 6-point Likert-type scale as a pre-test (prior to participation in the simulation laboratory) and post-test (after participation in the simulation laboratory), and a debriefing session eliciting a follow up written reflective statement.

RESULTS

Sixty-four students (n = 56 pharmacy; n = 8 nursing) participated in the study which resulted n = 52 pharmacy students and n = 8 nursing students matched data to a pre-test and post-test survey, analyzed via paired t-tests. Statistically significant results (p < 0.05) reported a positive increase in pharmacy students' perceptions from the pre-test and post-test survey for all six items indicating the extent of agreement of IPC; and for one item on the nursing student survey. Qualitative analysis of reflective statements (n = 62) was conducted via thematic analysis utilizing Braun and Clarke's 6-phase process. Thematic analysis generated one overarching theme: IPC: Developing appreciation and respect for healthcare team members to improve patient outcomes; and three subthemes: (i) Enhanced decision-making; (ii) Communication and collaboration; (iii) New understandings of roles and responsibilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Students perceived that utilizing the RIPE Model of learning involving simulation to enhance interprofessional collaboration assisted their understanding of the roles, functions and responsibilities of other healthcare professionals involved the patient care team. Effective collaboration was perceived to be beneficial to enhancing confidence with engagement and communication, appreciation and respect for the expertise of other healthcare professions.