scholarly journals Designing and Evaluating a Virtual Patient Simulation—The Journey from Uniprofessional to Interprofessional Learning

Information ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 28 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nataly Martini ◽  
Kate Farmer ◽  
Shambhavi Patil ◽  
Gauis Tan ◽  
Cindy Wang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Patient Simulation ◽  
Virtual Patient ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
Student Experiences ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Interprofessional Learning ◽  
Working Together ◽  
Photorealistic Images ◽  
Intuitive Interface

“Ready to Practice?”(R2P) is a virtual patient simulation designed for undergraduate medical and pharmacy students. After initial prototyping, R2P developed into a screen-based virtual patient (VP) simulation with an intuitive interface using photorealistic images of people and places with speech bubbles and decision menus. We describe the design of the VP, findings from student experiences with the software, and the potential of VPs for interprofessional learning. We used a mixed methods study to assess students’ perceptions of the VP as a learning tool. Qualitative data were gathered using semi-structured interviews and observations, and quantitative data through the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS) and an evaluation questionnaire. Overall, participants showed significantly improved RIPLS scores after participation in the simulation (78.78 to 82.25, p < 0.0001), including in the Positive Professional Identify domain (p < 0.001). Students also showed significant improvement in RIPLS scores in the Teamwork and Collaboration domain when pharmacy and medical students were working together in interprofessional pairs (40.75 to 43.00, p < 0.006) but not when working alone (n.s.). Five themes emerged from interviews where participants identified specific interprofessional insights into each other’s roles and skills. Students found the VP engaging and valuable for their learning and their understanding of teamwork.

scholarly journals Perceived representativeness, usefulness and impacts of using the nursing activities score as part of a workload readjustment initiative: A mixed methods study

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (8) ◽  
pp. 53
Author(s):  
Dominique Reda ◽  
Mélanie Lavoie-Tremblay ◽  
Marie-Douce Primeau
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Secondary Analysis ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
Nursing Workload ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Mixed Method Design ◽  
Fundamental Understanding ◽  
Perceived Workload ◽  
Project Monitoring ◽  
Negative Impacts

Objective: Nursing workload has been shown to have negative impacts on job satisfaction, retention and turnover. The NAS is one of existing tools targeting nursing workload quantification. Although tested in multiple settings, few studies explored nurses’ perception of its representativeness of workload, and its impacts when used to readjust nurse/patient ratios. This study was conducted to validate nurses’ perception of representativeness and potential usefulness of the Nursing Activities Score (NAS) in regard to nurses’ perceived workload and explore its impacts as part of a workload readjustment initiative.Methods: A mixed method design was selected, combining semi-structured interviews (n = 13), and secondary analysis of project monitoring data for an entire intensive care unit (n = 139). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v.22 software for quantitative data, and qualitative data was analyzed through NVivo 12 software using a thematic deductive-mixed content analysis, aiming for the emergence of recurring themes. Results: When taken as a whole, the NAS is perceived to be representative of nursing workload. However, validity concerns were identified at the tool completion level, notably in regard to improper documenting of events and fundamental understanding of the tool by nurses. Numerous impacts related to the use of the NAS were also identified.Conclusions: Although the NAS appears to adequately represent nursing workload, its pertinent utility remains debatable due to high subjectivity described in this study. The sole use of the tool for patient assignment is therefore questionable.

scholarly journals Public spaces and physical activity in adults: insights from a mixed-methods study

2021 ◽  
Vol 37 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ietza Bojorquez ◽  
Maria de Lourdes Romo-Aguilar ◽  
Lina Ojeda-Revah ◽  
Fernando Tena ◽  
Francisco Lara-Valencia ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Health Benefit ◽  
Positive Association ◽  
Household Survey ◽  
Public Spaces ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Potential Health

Abstract: Public spaces could promote health equity by providing a place for people to engage in physical activity. Whereas most studies show a positive association between public spaces and physical activity, there are still mixed results, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The objectives of this mixed-methods study were: (i) to assess the quantitative association between access to public spaces and physical activity; (ii) to assess the modification of the association by public spaces quality, area-level walkability, and social stratifiers; (iii) to explain the quantitative results using qualitative data. Quantitative data were obtained with a household survey in two arid-climate Mexican cities in 2017-2018. physical activity was measured with the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. Access to public spaces was measured in buffers centered on survey blocks, walkability with area-level indicators, and public spaces quality with the Physical Activity Resources Assessment. Qualitative data were obtained with semi-structured interviews and neighborhood observation. No quantitative association between access to public spaces and physical activity was found, as well as no interactions between access to public spaces and other variables. Walkability was positively associated with physical activity. Qualitative analysis showed that local public spaces were rarely used by adults because they were perceived as small, unequipped, unattractive, and unsafe. The results shed light on the relationship between public spaces and physical activity, highlighting the improvements in design and upkeep of public spaces that are necessary to achieve their potential health benefit.

scholarly journals Facilitating Interprofessional Education in an Online Environment during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed Method Study

Healthcare ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (5) ◽  
pp. 567
Author(s):  
Jitendra Singh ◽  
Barbara Matthees
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Online Education ◽  
Interprofessional Education ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Qualitative Content Analysis ◽  
Online Discussions ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
Interprofessional Learning ◽  
Team Members ◽  
Innovative Methods

With the COVID-19 crisis and rapid increase in cases, the need for interprofessional education (IPE) and collaborative practice is more important than ever. Instructors and health professionals are exploring innovative methods to deliver IPE programs in online education This paper presents a mixed methods study where an interprofessional education program was delivered/taught using online instruction. Using a survey/questionnaire adapted from the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS) and qualitative discussions, students’ readiness towards online IPE program and the importance of such preparation was examined. Out of two hundred fifteen students who completed the IPE program, one hundred eighty five students from clinical and non-clinical health disciplines responded to the questionnaire (86.04% response rate). Additional qualitative content analysis was conducted on a total of seven hundred and thirty six online discussions. Data analysis across all the four subscales of RIPLS suggests that students felt positively about teamwork and collaboration, and valued opportunities for shared learning with other healthcare students. Qualitative data analysis demonstrated that IPE increases awareness of team members’ roles, enhances communication and collaboration and can lead to better care for COVID-19 patients.

scholarly journals Sustainability of the Healthy Municipalities Strategy in Guatemala

2021 ◽  
Vol 45 ◽  
pp. 1
Author(s):  
Jorge Laureano-Eugenio ◽  
Raúl Otoniel Gómez-Rodríguez ◽  
Jhunny Tasejo-Corzantes ◽  
Augusto Silvestre Ramírez ◽  
Rosa María Pretell Aguilar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Quantitative Information ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
Local Planning ◽  
Qualitative Information ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Social Sphere ◽  
The Social ◽  
Five Phases ◽  
Support Decision Making

Objective. Evaluate the sustainability of the Healthy Municipalities strategy in Guatemala in order to have solid evidence to support decision-making. Methods. A concurrent mixed-methods study was carried out in five phases: 1) theoretical-conceptual (based on a narrative review of the literature on sustainability, dimensions and categories were proposed for evaluation); 2) empirical (four municipalities were selected for convenience and 29 semi-structured interviews and four focus groups were conducted with key actors to explore sustainability; with this information, a score was assigned to each category and dimension); 3) analytical, by category and dimension (content analysis was performed for qualitative information, and totals and averages were calculated for quantitative information); 4) integrative (qualitative data were integrated into matrices by category and dimension, and quantitative data were supported by qualitative information); and 5) meta-inference (consideration was given to the context and its influence on the results). Results. Ninety-two (92) informants participated. In operational terms, progress was observed in the transfer and use of results, and in rotations in leadership. In the legal and political sphere, accountability and local planning were highlighted. In the economic sphere, progressive investment in health, water and sanitation was emphasized, as well as insufficient investment in social determinants of health. In the social sphere, few mechanisms were observed to promote and strengthen social participation. Conclusions. In the municipalities that participated in the study, a fair level of sustainability was observed in the Healthy Municipalities strategy.

scholarly journals Virtual patient simulation to improve nurses’ relational skills in a continuing education context: A convergent mixed methods study

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Geneviève Rouleau ◽  
Marie-Pierre Gagnon ◽  
José Côté ◽  
Lauralie Richard ◽  
Gabrielle Chicoine ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Continuing Education ◽  
Technology Acceptance ◽  
Learning Experience ◽  
Patient Simulation ◽  
Virtual Patient ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
Simulation Based ◽  
Post Test ◽  
Relational Skills

Abstract Background Nurses must meet professional standards by attending continuing education activities. Despite the potential of virtual patient simulation in nursing education, it has rarely been used in nurses’ continuing education to address relational skills. We developed an automated virtual patient simulation informed by motivational interviewing to enhance nurses’ relational skills. The simulation features an HIV-positive man struggling to adhere to his medication. Quizzes and feedback loops embedded in the simulation allow learners to observe the consequences of their choices. This study aimed to assess nurses’ perception of simulation’s acceptability. Specific objectives were: to measure the simulation design elements, its role in supporting practice, its quality and technology acceptance, and the achievement of learning objectives; to explore nurses’ learning experience. Methods We performed a convergent mixed methods study by combining a quantitative pre-experimental, one-group post-test design and a qualitative exploratory study. We used convenience and snowball sampling approaches to select registered nurses (n=49) working in Quebec, Canada, who self-reported as having basic computer literacy skills. Participants completed an online sociodemographic questionnaire, consulted the simulation, and filled out an online post-test survey. Descriptive statistics (mean, SD, median, interquartile range) were used to present quantitative findings. From the 27 participants who completed the simulation and post-test survey, five participated in a focus group to explore their learning experience. The discussion transcript was subjected to thematic analysis. Results Nurses perceived the simulation to be highly acceptable. They rated the global system quality and the technology acceptance with high scores. They reported having enjoyed the simulation and recommended other providers use it. Four qualitative themes were identified: motivations to engage in the simulation-based research; learning in a realistic, immersive, and non-judgmental environment; perceived utility of the simulation; and perceived difficulty in engaging in the simulation-based research. Conclusions The simulation contributed to knowledge and skills development on motivational interviewing and enhanced nurses’ self-confidence in applying relational skills. Simulation holds the potential to change practice, as nurses become more self-reflective and aware of the impact of their relational skills on patient care. Relational skills are fundamental to high-quality nursing care.Trial registration:ISRCTN18243005, retrospectively registered on July 3 2020.

scholarly journals Virtual patient simulation to improve nurses’ relational skills in a continuing education context: A convergent mixed-methods study

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Geneviève Rouleau ◽  
Marie-Pierre Gagnon ◽  
José Côté ◽  
Lauralie Richard ◽  
Gabrielle Chicoine ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Motivational Interviewing ◽  
Technology Acceptance ◽  
Learning Experience ◽  
Patient Simulation ◽  
Virtual Patient ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
Simulation Based ◽  
Post Test ◽  
Relational Skills

Abstract Background: Some nurses may feel ill-equipped to support people living with HIV who do not optimally adhere to their antiretroviral therapy. In response, to enhance the relational skills nurses require in situations of non-adherence, we developed a virtual patient simulation that features an HIV-positive man struggling to adhere to his therapy. The simulation is informed by a strengths-based nursing approach, motivational interviewing, and adult learning theories This study aimed to assess nurses’ perception of simulation’s acceptability. Specific objectives were: to measure the simulation design elements, its role in supporting practice, its quality and technology acceptance, and the achievement of learning objectives; to explore nurses’ learning experience.Methods: We conducted a convergent mixed methods study by combining a quantitative pre-experimental, one-group post-test design and a qualitative exploratory study. We used convenience and snowball sampling approaches to select Canadian registered nurses (n=49). who self-reported as having basic computer literacy skills. Participants completed an online sociodemographic questionnaire, consulted the simulation, and filled out an online post-test survey. Descriptive statistics (mean, SD, median, interquartile range) were used to present quantitative findings. From the 27 participants who completed the simulation and post-test survey, five participated in a focus group to explore their learning experience. The discussion transcript was subjected to thematic analysis. At the final stage of the study, we used a comparison strategy for integrating the quantitative and qualitative results.Results: Nurses perceived the simulation to be highly acceptable. They rated the global system quality and the technology acceptance with high scores. They reported having enjoyed the simulation and recommended other providers use it. Four qualitative themes were identified: motivations to engage in the simulation-based research; learning in a realistic, immersive, and non-judgmental environment; perceived utility of the simulation; and perceived difficulty in engaging in the simulation-based research.Conclusions: The simulation contributed to knowledge and skills development on motivational interviewing and enhanced nurses’ self-confidence in applying relational skills. Simulation holds the potential to change practice, as nurses become more self-reflective and aware of the impact of their relational skills on patient care. Relational skills are fundamental to high-quality nursing care.Trial registration: ISRCTN18243005, retrospectively registered on July 3 2020.

scholarly journals Community pharmacists’ perceptions on providing fall prevention services: a mixed-methods study

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marle Gemmeke ◽  
Ellen S. Koster ◽  
Eline A. Rodijk ◽  
Katja Taxis ◽  
Marcel L. Bouvy
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Fall Prevention ◽  
Fall Risk ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Community Pharmacists ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Prevention Services ◽  
Complex Decision Making ◽  
Complex Decision

AbstractBackground Pharmacists may contribute to fall prevention particularly by identifying and deprescribing fall risk-increasing drugs (FRIDs) in patients with high fall risk. Objective To assess community pharmacists’ perceptions on providing fall prevention services, and to identify their barriers and facilitators in offering these fall prevention services including deprescribing of FRIDs. Setting A mixed-methods study was conducted with Dutch pharmacists. Method Quantitative (ranking statements on a Likert scale, survey) and qualitative data (semi-structured interviews) were collected. Out of 466 pharmacists who were invited to participate, 313 Dutch pharmacists ranked statements, about providing fall prevention, that were presented during a lecture, and 205 completed a survey. To explore pharmacists’ perceptions in-depth, 16 were interviewed. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics. All interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. The capability opportunity motivation-behaviour model was applied to interpret and analyse the findings of qualitative data. Main outcome measure Community pharmacists’ views on providing fall prevention. Results Pharmacists stated that they were motivated to provide fall prevention. They believed they were capable of providing fall prevention by FRID deprescribing. They perceived limited opportunities to contribute. Major barriers included insufficient multidisciplinary collaboration, patient unwillingness to deprescribe FRIDs, and lack of time. Facilitators included goal-setting behaviour, financial compensation, and skilled communication. Conclusion Despite the complex decision-making process in medication-related fall prevention, community pharmacists are motivated and feel capable of providing fall prevention. Opportunities for pharmacists to provide fall prevention services should be enhanced, for example by implementing multidisciplinary agreements.

scholarly journals Virtual patient simulation to improve nurses’ relational skills in a continuing education context: a convergent mixed methods study

BMC Nursing ◽  
2022 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Geneviève Rouleau ◽  
Marie-Pierre Gagnon ◽  
José Côté ◽  
Lauralie Richard ◽  
Gabrielle Chicoine ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Motivational Interviewing ◽  
Continuing Education ◽  
Patient Simulation ◽  
Virtual Patient ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
Simulation Based ◽  
Post Test ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Relational Skills

Abstract Background Effective provider-patient communication is crucial to the delivery of high-quality care. Communication roadblock such as righting reflex is widely observed among providers and can lead to relational disengagement. In previous work, nurses felt ill-equipped to communicate effectively with HIV-positive patients to support medication adherence. Providing nurses with continuing education opportunities to improve their relational skills is a major target for optimizing the quality of care. Virtual patient simulation is one promising strategy that needs to be evaluated among graduate nurses. This study aimed to assess the acceptability of a virtual patient simulation to improve nurses’ relational skills in a continuing education context. Methods We conducted a convergent mixed methods study by combining a quantitative pre-experimental, one-group post-test design and a qualitative exploratory study. We used convenience and snowball sampling approaches to select registered nurses (n = 49) working in Quebec, Canada. Participants completed an online sociodemographic questionnaire, consulted the automated virtual patient simulation (informed by motivational interviewing), and filled out an online post-test survey. Descriptive statistics (mean, SD, median, interquartile range) were used to present quantitative findings. From the 27 participants who completed the simulation and post-test survey, five participated in a focus group to explore their learning experience. The discussion transcript was subjected to thematic analysis. At the final stage of the study, we used a comparison strategy for the purpose of integrating the quantitative and qualitative results. Results Nurses perceived the simulation to be highly acceptable. They rated the global system quality and the technology acceptance with high scores. They reported having enjoyed the simulation and recommended other providers use it. Four qualitative themes were identified: motivations to engage in the simulation-based research; learning in a realistic, immersive, and non-judgmental environment; perceived utility of the simulation; and perceived difficulty in engaging in the simulation-based research. Conclusions The simulation contributed to knowledge and skills development on motivational interviewing and enhanced nurses’ self-confidence in applying relational skills. Simulation holds the potential to change practice, as nurses become more self-reflective and aware of the impact of their relational skills on patient care. Trial registration ISRCTN18243005, retrospectively registered on July 3 2020.

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