Utilising a simulated clinical rotation elective to prepare pharmacy students for experiential education

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of an Introduction to Internal Medicine (ITIM) elective course on student preparedness for experiential education. Methods: A one-credit elective was offered to second and third-year professional students. It was designed to simulate a typical day as a fourth-year student on rotation while utilising a simulated electronic health record. Upon completion of the course, a survey was sent to assess student preparedness for rotational activities. The students’ reported level of preparedness was compared to their preceptors’ assessment of these same survey items. Results: Thirty-six students and their preceptors responded to the survey. Students rated their preparedness highly, with 80% responding as moderately prepared or higher in navigating a patient chart, identifying patients’ problems, presenting a patient, and identifying treatments for common disease states. Preceptors also noted that over 90% of the students were moderately or much better prepared than students who did not complete the elective. Conclusion: Students completing the ITIM elective course demonstrated high levels of preparedness for a variety of rotational activities from patient care to professional communication.