Abstract
Interprofessional collaboration among healthcare professionals is crucial for providing quality patient care. Interprofessional education (IPE) simulations in undergraduate health professions programs, enhance students' confidence and their understanding of the roles of the healthcare team.
Dietetics and radiography students participated in an IPE scenario where dietetic students placed nasogastric (NG) tubes into a simulation mannequin and radiography students used a portable x-ray to obtain optimal radiographs for visualization of the NG tubes. For baseline levels of knowledge on IPE and communication skills, students completed TeamSTEPPS training. Students completed an IPE pre/posttest (SPICE-R2) about their perceptions of IPE and interprofessional collaborative practice. Immediately following the IPE scenario, students participated in a debriefing that included self-reflection on the individual/ team collaboration, and application to clinical practice, through scripted questions and prompts by the authors.
Students summarized the scenario, reflected on their performance, highlighted IP skills used, and summarized what knowledge was gained from this scenario.
The authors used the IPE activity to instruct on the roles and responsibilities of dietetics professionals for inserting NG tubes and administering enteral feedings. The roles and responsibilities of radiography professionals for obtaining optimal NG placement radiographs and administering contrast through the NG tubes were also taught. Students demonstrated the use of various NG tubes. Dietetic students placed either an original NG tube or a mercury- weighted feeding tube into the simulation mannequin demonstrating the proper procedure and steps. Radiography students obtained radiographs of the empty stomach of the simulation mannequin, then a barium and water solution was injected into the NG tube to allow for contrast visualization within the stomach. Students discussed the visual difference radiographically between the different types of NG tubes. Students learned about common issues with NG tube placements and complications. Students learned the importance of
obtaining a radiograph before contrast has been administered and what types of contrast should be used depending on the patient history, pathologies, and allergies.