“The Safety Dance”: A Faculty Development Workshop Partnering IPE and Patient Safety Initiatives Using Simulation-Based Education

INTRODUCTION: Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) is important for improving patient outcomes and patient safety; however, interprofessional education (IPE) is required to develop skills necessary for successful IPC. IPE is resource intensive and requires advance planning and negotiation of logistical challenges. The goal of this faculty development workshop is to train administrators and educators from academic health care institutions to address potential challenges faced during design and implementation of IPE programs. METHODS: This educational module presents best practices for implementing simulation-based IPE to enhance patient safety through an interactive workshop. We utilize hands-on practice with coaching through a facilitated small-group tabletop simulation followed by a large-group discussion driven by the case-based method to maximize learning and engage a diverse audience. The materials associated with the module include a workshop outline, a PowerPoint slide show, and a summary handout for the participants. To facilitate the tabletop simulation and the subsequent large-group discussion, we have included two versions of the small-group prompts, a worksheet for the participants to complete during the tabletop exercise, and a facilitator guide. RESULTS: We have received positive feedback regarding the learning value of the module from faculty attendees at a regional simulation conference as well as the International Meeting on Simulation in Healthcare in January of 2016. DISCUSSION: Implementing simulation-based IPE curricula to address patient safety initiatives comes with a unique set of challenges that require prior training and knowledge. We provide insight and evidence-based strategies in this module to help interested parties successfully implement their own programs.