Open AccessEffectiveness of Bi-lingual Multidisciplinary Simulation-based Training in Improving Communication and Breaking Bad-News Skills
Author(s) -
Baraa Tayeb,
Jameel Abuelenain,
Wadeeah Bahaziq,
Loui K. Alsulimani,
Abeer A. Arab,
Abdulaziz Boker
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
the journal of medicine, law and public health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2788-9815
pISSN - 2788-791X
DOI - 10.52609/jmlph.v2i1.38
Subject(s) - test (biology) , communication skills , multidisciplinary approach , health care , communication skills training , medicine , medical education , patient satisfaction , psychology , nursing , paleontology , social science , sociology , economics , biology , economic growth
Background: Healthcare worker (HCW)-patient communication is an essential element of every patient’s journey, and evidence links good communication with favourable patient experiences and outcomes. Simulation-based training (SBT) is a promising and effective tool to improve such communication.Aim: To develop a bilingual SBT programme in communication skills for all HCWs in an academic tertiary hospital, to improve patient care, experiences and outcomes.Methods: This was a quasi-experimental design, conducted in 2018 at King Abdulaziz University (KAU). We designed and delivered a bilingual, simulation-based, full-day course for HCWs (both clinical and administrative), and measured its impact by comparing pre- and post-course test scores, participant feedback, and instructor performance satisfaction indices.Results: We trained 318 HCWs over 15 days, using 10 instructors. Post-test scores showed individual and overall improvement. The average scores were 26.6% (14-40%) for the pre-test and 55.8% (37-70%) for the post-test, with an average improvement of 29% (P<0.005). Participant feedback was 77% positive and in favour of more training. The average instructor performance satisfaction score was 96.2% (92-99%).Conclusion: We demonstrated the positive impact of SBT on communication skills for both clinical and administrative HCWs. We also demonstrated the sustainability and scalability of this course.