Bouncing off Each Other: Experiencing Interprofessional Collaboration Through Simulation

Background: Effective communication and collaboration in interprofessional teams are fundamental to the provision of high quality and safe healthcare. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of interprofessional, pre–qualifying health professional students engaged in a simulated patient care scenario. Methods: Students from five healthcare disciplines were immersed in a collaborative simulation experience of managing a patient with stroke, from admission to discharge. Three focus groups were used to evaluate students’ experiences. Results: Three key themes emerged from participant narratives: (a) Learning to Speak the Same language: Working Together to Understand the Healthcare Team, (b) Progressing from Uncertainty to Collaborative Practice: Reflecting on Practice and Transition, and (c) Lessons Learned in Developing the Simulation: Barriers and Enablers to Learning. Conclusions: Immersion of healthcare students in interprofessional simulation experiences enhances role understanding, collaborative decision making, and communication skills