Comparing the Effectiveness of Role-Play Simulation versus Real Patient Transferal Skills Training in Occupational Therapy Students in Saudi-Arabia- A Quasi-Experimental Study

Advances in Medical Education and Practice, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.2147/AMEP.S410793 · Published: June 30, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study compares role-play simulation with real-patient training for teaching transfer skills to occupational therapy students. Students were divided into two groups: one trained with role-play simulation and the other with real patients who had mild to moderate stroke and spinal cord injuries. The study found no significant difference in student performance between the two training methods, suggesting simulation can be an effective alternative.

Study Duration

6 weeks

Participants

71 occupational therapy students

Evidence Level

Quasi-experimental study

Key Findings

1
There was no significant difference in the students’ overall performance in patient transferring skills between the role-play simulation group and the real-patient training group.
2
Students in the role-play simulation group reported feeling more confident in performing patient transfers compared to the real-patient training group.
3
The role-play simulation group scored significantly higher on body mechanism, indicating a better understanding and application of proper body mechanics during patient transfers.

Research Summary

This quasi-experimental study compared the effectiveness of role-play simulation (RPS) versus real patient (RP) training in teaching patient transfer skills (PTS) to occupational therapy students. The study found no significant difference in the overall PTS performance between the RPS and RP groups, suggesting that RPS can be a viable alternative to RP training. Students in the RPS group reported higher confidence levels in performing patient transfers, highlighting a potential benefit of simulation-based training.

Practical Implications

Curriculum Design

Simulation can be integrated into occupational therapy curricula as a safe and effective alternative to real-patient training, especially when dealing with potentially risky scenarios.

Resource Allocation

Institutions can consider using simulation to address challenges related to patient availability and safety concerns, optimizing resource allocation for clinical skills training.

Confidence Building

Simulation-based training can boost students' confidence in performing patient transfers, which is crucial for their readiness and competence in clinical practice.

Study Limitations

1
The study assessed only one skill (PTS).
2
The sample included undergraduate occupational therapy students from one university in SA.
3
Patients had mild to moderate impairment, leaving out the more severely ill patient group.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Education