ISU Theatre Students Provide Valuable Real-World Practice for Health Care Students

In a remarkable display of teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration, student learners from various healthcare-related fields and the Department of Theatre and Dance at Idaho State University (ISU) came together for the annual Interprofessional Education (IPE) GRIT simulation.

Held via Zoom and spanning two hours, this year's simulation provided a unique opportunity for students to engage in a realistic health care scenario. Close to 200 student learners participated, including 60 pharmacy students, 72 physician assistant students, 45 social work students, 10 athletic training students, and 12 theatre students. 

The central scenario of the simulation revolved around a healthcare student, Avery, who was facing disciplinary action for a violation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Avery was grappling with the prospect of leaving the healthcare program due to these issues. What made this simulation truly unique was the involvement of theatre students, who took on the role of Avery, adding realism to the exercise.

During the two-hour simulation, health care students were tasked with working together to assist Avery in building their "GRIT," the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or even significant sources of stress (American Psychological Association, 2014). This required students to navigate complex ethical and professional challenges, reinforcing the importance of interprofessional collaboration in healthcare settings.

The goals of this simulation were to share accountability with other professions, patients, and communities for outcomes relevant to prevention and health care; To engage self and others to constructively manage disagreements about values, roles, goals, and actions that arise among health and other professionals and with patients, families, and community members; And to develop a trusting relationship with patients, families, and other team members.

This November 9-11, the ISU Community, Pocatello Community, and ISU Theatre students will have the opportunity to train with Trajectory Consulting + Solutions who will be visiting ISU’s campus. This visit is phase one of creating a destination simulation center at Idaho State University. While on campus, Trajectory will meet with interested stakeholders, tour ISU facilities, and train students, faculty and community members in simulation. Thanks to a generous sponsorship, this training will be offered free of charge. All are welcome. More information will be provided in the coming weeks.