Evaluation of an Interprofessional Preceptor Training Module: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background:

To promote a culture of interprofessional education and collaboration in preceptorship, it is essential that respiratory therapists and other health professions preceptors acknowledge the opportunities and barriers involved with interprofessional collaborative practice (IPC). The quality of IPC within the interprofessional team relies heavily on clinical preceptors bridging the gap between uni-professional and interprofessional practice. However, to date, there are no interprofessional preceptor (IPP) training modules to develop these important skills.

Methods:

This IRB approved study explored changes in preceptors’ attitudes toward interprofessional preceptor competencies after taking part in the IPP training. Furthermore, it also explored the preceptors’ ability to recognize ineffective behaviors and negative influencing factors. An online IPP training module based on AARC Clinical Practices of Effective Preceptors was created using an online, asynchronous format. Preceptors at a midwestern academic medical center evaluated interprofessional preceptor competencies demonstrated in videos and explored their attitudes using the Interprofessional Socialization and Valuing Scale (ISVS) before and after module completion. Qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed.

Results:

Participants were respiratory therapists (50%) and medical dietitians (50%). While the IPP module training did not result in a statistically significant increase in ISVS scores, the mean ISVS scores improved from 118.62 to 123.12. The participants were able to correctly identify greater than 65% of ineffective and effective behaviors in the IPP videos. Mean interprofessional precepting self-efficacy scores increased after IPP from 7.5 to 9.0 (P < .01). There were no statistical differences in perceptions towards interprofessional preceptor competencies by age, profession, precepting experience and work experience.

Conclusions:

Following IPP training, participants had improved interprofessional attitudes and increased confidence levels for IPP. Further research is needed to see if similar findings occur with preceptors with less experience and in other clinical settings. The pilot data support the use of an interprofessional precepting training module.