The impact of a hands-on exercise on confidence and knowledge regarding preparation of medications used during medical emergencies

ObjectiveTo familiarize participants with the proper preparation, use, and labeling of medications utilized in medical emergencies (ME) through a hands-on workshop and to evaluate if this type of instructional method could increase participants’ knowledge about use and preparation of those medications and improve confidence in the ability to perform pharmacy-related tasks that occur during a medical emergency.DesignParticipants attended a hands-on workshop on the use, preparation, and labeling of medications utilized during medical emergencies.AssessmentSixty-five participants (students, residents, and pharmacists) completed the workshop and all assessment materials. Examination scores improved by a mean of 20% (p < 0.0001) for all groups after completion of the workshop. Significantly more participants responded either confident or highly confident on the post-survey domains versus the pre-survey, 67% versus 37%, respectively (p < 0.0001).ConclusionHands-on learning has positive impact on confidence and knowledge following instruction on medications in the medical emergency settings. This type of learning could be adapted to other topics involving pharmacy-related skills.