Dynamic and Routine Interprofessional Simulations: Expanding the Use of Simulation to Enhance Interprofessional Competencies

The purpose of this study was to develop, deliver, and assess relevant interprofessional (IP) simulation experiences for prelicensure students from multiple disciplines in certificate, diploma, and degree programs. Seventy-eight students from four post-secondary institutions participated in either a high-fidelity mannequin postoperative simulation experience (dynamic simulation) or a standardized patient homecare simulation experience (routine simulation). The University of West England Questionnaire was used pre- and post-simulation experience to determine the change in communication and teamwork. Overall, students' perceptions of their communication and teamwork skills increased after completing either simulation. Students from certificate, diploma, and degree programs participating in the same simulations demonstrated improvements on self-report measures of communication and teamwork. The key was creating a simulation learning experience that reflected the realities of practice, rather than the participants' credentials. Placing students in teams that are relevant for practice, rather than grouping them by academic credentials, is necessary and can provide positive learning experiences for all participants, as demonstrated by these results.