Differences between Perceived Readiness for Interprofessional Learning in Nursing and Other Health-related Students

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the level of perceived readiness for interprofessional learning and its differences between nursing and other health-related students. Methods: A web-based survey was conducted from April 25 to June 30, 2017 in one university in Korea. A total of 325 undergraduate nursing students and other health-related disciplines completed the structured questionnaire consisting of Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale and general characteristics. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression. Results: The scores of readiness for interprofessional learning in nursing students were significantly higher than those in other health-related students (t=3.50, p=.001). Nursing students had higher collaboration, professional identity, and roles and responsibilities than other health-related students. The class experiences with other major students was a significant factor related to the readiness for interprofessional learning both in nursing (p=.001) and other health-related students (p=.001). Conclusion: The findings suggest that nursing educators consider the different level of readiness for interprofessional learning between nursing and other health-related students while integrating interprofessional education into nursing education curricula.