Evaluation of a model for maximizing interprofessional education in an acute hospital

A one-year planning phase established a rolling programme of bi-monthly interprofessional clinical teaching workshops derived directly from patient experiences in an acute hospital. Pre-registration healthcare students from 8 professions spent an afternoon in the hospital training centre, randomly allocated to one of 6-8 small working groups. Using a problem-based methodology they analysed a ward case with patient consent, chosen to reflect the input of a wide range of health professionals. Students worked through a prepared workbook facilitated by a range of tutors from all disciplines. Each small group reported back on one aspect of team working to the entire cohort entering into debate and discussion with the support of clinical and academic tutors. Post course patient details were found on a website enabling students to progress their uni-professional knowledge, e.g., on anatomy, physiology, pharmacology etc. The questionnaire evaluation on over 126 students and 11 tutors identified that interprofessional competencies were understood and valued. Students related principles of team working and collaborative practice to their placement experiences of team work. Interactive learning enables further appreciation of professions roles and responsibilities and the importance of teamwork to optimize patient care (82.0 - 90.5%). The half-day learning model can be easily supported by busy clinical staff, led by hospital educators and accessed by students on hospital placements, at a mid-point in training, with learning supported by consenting in-patients or recent admissions prepared to share their experiences.