Analysis of Learning Effects in One-Day Simulation Based Workshop on Basic Airway Management and Mechanical Ventilation among Physiotherapy Students

Background: To analyze the effects of simulation-based learning experiences and to examine their potential to have a positive impact on physiotherapy (PT) learners' knowledge. Globally, physiotherapy students are required to complete 2410 hours of placement-based education to prepare them for immediate clinical practice on graduation. Numerous workshops are conducted by physiotherapists for 14 hours or more and there is no evidence to support the knowledge acquisition of students by these teaching hours. Objective: To determine knowledge gain of physiotherapy students who participated in a standardized, one-day simulation based workshop organized in SRM College of Physiotherapy, SRM University. Methods: The study population consisted of 30 students who participated from various colleges of Physiotherapy. A 20-question multiple-choice test and Feedback form which addresses 7 questions with 5 point rating scale was completed before and after the workshop. Pre and post-test analyses were performed. Results: Scoring increased significantly from pretest to post-test for students from various Colleges of Physiotherapy. Conclusion: This workshop had a positive impact on the knowledge gain of physiotherapy students on the topic of respiratory arrest, basic airway, oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation using Simulation based education. This is an effective strategy for teaching physiotherapy in this region.