Fostering Intra-Professional Teamwork And Communication Through A Collaborative, Virtual Simulation Experience For DPT and PTA Students

Jillian Duff (Seton Hall University); Marcia Downer (Seton Hall University)

Purpose: Evaluate effects of a virtual intra-professional simulation experience on perceptions of PTA roles and collaborative competency in DPT and PTA students.

Methods: A cohort of DPT and PTA students received a synchronous online lecture on the Role of the PTA followed by a training session on the use of the SBAR (Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation) tool and orientation to the EHRgo Case platform. Small groups of students worked together to virtually manage the care of two concurrent patient cases during a subsequent remote simulation event. All students completed the PTA Roles Survey prior to and on completion of the sevent. Students also completed the Interprofessional Collaborative Competency Attainment Survey (ICCAS).Pre and post test data from the PTA Roles Survey will be analyzed using t-tests (p < .05). Non parametric Mann Whiney / Wilcoxen tests will be used to analyze the ICCAS responses (p < .05).

Results: A pilot study found significantly increased DPT student scores on a PTA roles test (p < .02). 88% reported the experience contributed to their ability to communicate and practice collaboratively. Unfortunately, COVID 19 caused postponement of the 2020 event and data analysis is ongoing.

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