Structured incremental measurement of directed and objective simulation experiences-pilot (SIM DOSE-P)

Abstract

Objective: To describe performance, anxiety, confidence, and time effects across multiple individual simulation experiences in an acute care environment among volunteer Pharm.D. students.         Methods: This pilot study used five different cases spanning five weeks.  Participants were not aware of case content until each simulation began but topics had been taught in the curriculum. Performance on a SOAP note, self-reported anxiety and confidence, and time to complete each activity were measured. A focus group provided qualitative feedback.    Results: Fifteen participants completed the study. Mean performance scores across all cases were variable without a predictable pattern. Global measures of anxiety and confidence numerically improved. The average time to complete simulation activities was similar across the first three cases but decreased for the remaining two cases. Participant comments supported the overall design as meaningful and encouraged self-directed learning.      Conclusion: The design of repeated individual simulation experiences improves anxiety and confidence scores and promotes self-directed learning.