Title: Preparing Occupational Therapy Students for Acute Care: Simulation Enhances Skills, Confidence and Resilience

Authors:
Lisa R. Cohen, OTD, OTR/L
Jessica D. Asiello, OTD, OTR/L

JACOT Volume 7, Issue 2

Abstract

Background
The acute hospital is a challenging fieldwork placement for occupational therapy students, with a high failure rate. Educational programs must prepare students with strong clinical skills, professional behaviors and resilience to thrive in this complex environment.
Methodology
We designed and implemented an acute care module within an entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy fieldwork preparation course, guided by Experiential Learning Theory, Social-Emotional Learning, and mindfulness. Activities included group problem-solving, resilience-building exercises, and simulation of clinical and communication skills with a standardized patient, physician, and nurse. Pre-/post-scores on a confidence survey were compared with Wilcoxon signed-ranks test and mean scores on the simulation rubric assessed skills (n=33). Qualitative feedback on optional resilience activities was collected through written reflections (n=4).
Results
Confidence significantly increased on nine of 12 clinical skills. Participants demonstrated strong performance in clinical and communication skills during simulation. Resilience-building activities were received positively, but students indicated more time was needed for skill development.
Discussion
This acute care module attained its aims of preparing students’ clinical skills, communication, and resilience. Future research should further explore the impact of acute care simulation and resilience-building on students, fieldwork educators, and occupational therapy programs.