Virtual interprofessional simulation: An exploratory study of health care students’ experiences.

Abstract: This exploratory study looked at the experiences of social work, occupational therapy, and nursing students who participated in an interprofessional simulation that was offered virtually due to the impact of COVID-19. Little is known about the outcomes related to offering interprofessional education in a virtual format. However, with the advance of telehealth and pandemic restrictions, this model may be increasingly utilized. To further understanding, this study used a non-random, purposive sample of 255 students from one Midwestern university who attended one of two interprofessional healthcare simulations of the TeamSTEPPS (Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety) Program offered across two different semesters. Using conventional content analysis of the data resulted in three primary themes with corresponding subthemes: 1. challenges of virtual interprofessional collaboration(online communication; technology; and barriers to physical assessment). 2. benefits/value of virtual IP collaboration (bridging of disciplines; develop virtual skills; and increase confidence/overcome fear). 3. simulation programming (interprofessional team video; facilitators; debriefing; and assessment). These results are reviewed in light of the extant and related literature and recommendations are set forth.