Use of the Virtual Simulation Tool ‘MyDispense’ By Pharmacy Programs in the United States

Abstract

Objective. Pharmacy programs are increasingly using virtual simulation to provide a safe and realistic environment for students to practice critical patient care skills. The aim of this study was to describe the use of MyDispense, a virtual simulation tool, in pharmacy programs across the United States. Methods. Researchers developed a 16-item survey focused on program characteristics and MyDispense integration in pharmacy curricula. It was sent to MyDispense administrators of pharmacy programs in the United States. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the results. Results. Administrators from 36 pharmacy programs responded to the survey (72%). MyDispense was most commonly integrated into one or two courses for first-or second-year students. The most common skills that students practiced were medication dispensing, communication with patients, and drug-information skills. Validation exercises were most common followed by dispensing and over-the-counter exercises. The number of pharmacy schools using MyDispense suggest the potential for collaboration among instructors in order to increase efficiencies in delivery of course materials as well as evaluate student learning. Conclusion.Instructors most commonly used MyDispense in courses for first-and second-year students to teach medication dispensing, communication with patients, utilizing drug information resources, applying pharmacy laws, and making recommendations about over-the-counter medications.

Incorporation of MyDispense, a Virtual Pharmacy Simulation, into Extemporaneous Formulation Laboratories

“…This was made possible through the virtual pharmacy simulation, MyDispense. MyDispense is a virtual pharmacy simulation where students obtain the necessary practice to dispense medicines in a safe environment [ 8 ] and which has garnered extensive uptake across Pharmacy educators worldwide [ 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 ]. The virtual simulation has an inbuilt number of diverse patients with various medical conditions and histories, and students are able to practice dispensing a number of exercises that allow them to make decisions to dispense or not dispense based on the patient’s medical history and other medicine-related information.…”

Association between Clinical Case Validation and Students’ Success Rate in Virtual Pharmacy Simulation

“…40 The high-quality designed virtual scenario is fundamental to promoting the learning process and improving learner performance and satisfaction. 41 Validating, revising and increasing the virtual case complexity enhances the behavioural, affective and cognitive domains of engagement in online learning on the part of the students. 42 A valid, highly technical virtual patient scenario enhances the clinical reasoning skills and the student attitudes for attending to real patients.…”

A systematic review on the use of virtual patient and computer-based simulation for experiential pharmacy education

“…Researchers have explained that the virtual learning environment provided by VPs offers students opportunities to observe, participate in, and practice techniques and skills in an authentic and safe learning and teaching environment. 37 , 38 Furthermore, VPs contribute to creating engaging and enjoyable environments, which are key components of the learning process. 39 Additionally, the use of VPs has been found to improve students' attitudes toward courses, interprofessional teams, and patients.…”