Simulating Interprofessional Geriatric Patient Care Using Telehealth: A Team-Based Learning Activity

INTRODUCTION: More than one-third of Oklahomans live in rural counties, and 63 of Oklahoma's 77 counties are classified as health professional shortage areas, where telemedicine would be beneficial. In response to this need, in 2012, the Colleges of Nursing and Allied Health at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center implemented a sequence of interprofessional learning experiences to prepare nurse practitioner, physical therapy, and occupational therapy students in team-based geriatric care using telehealth technologies. METHODS: The sequence included modules on interprofessional competencies, a simulated patient case, and clinical experiences. This publication includes instructional materials and evaluation tools for replicating this sequence. RESULTS: Student responses to the guided reflection exercise provided a snapshot of their thoughts and reactions during this learning activity. Overall, their reflections suggested that they were highly motivated and actively thinking about how to work together effectively as a team to care for their standardized patient. DISCUSSION: This case is most applicable for educators who own telehealth equipment; however, a telehealth patient encounter could be simulated with other technologies.