Development and evaluation of interprofessional patient simulation activity for physiotherapy and occupational therapy students to assess and manage patients with chronic pain

Abstract

Background/aims Opportunities for interprofessional learning are a priority to prepare health professionals for the effective interprofessional assessment and management of patients with chronic pain, yet finding effective and sustainable approaches are a challenge for health professional programmes. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate an ‘interprofessional management of pain’ learning activity using simulation for physiotherapy and occupational therapy students. Methods A total of 40 physiotherapy and 20 occupational therapy students undertook the interprofessional management of pain learning activity. Chronic pain attitudes and beliefs (HC-PAIRS) and perception of interprofessional practice (SPICE-R) were assessed before and following the intervention. A survey relating to content and format of the activity was completed following the intervention. Results There was a significant improvement in total HC-PAIRS and SPICE-R scores for both student groups. Both groups demonstrated satisfaction with the activity. Conclusions These findings support the use of an interprofessional simulated learning activity with facilitated planning and debriefing to enhance students’ attitudes to chronic pain and interprofessional practice.