•  
  •  
 

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25035/jsmahs.10.02.01

Abstract

Introduction: Athletic trainers are trained to recognize exertional heat stroke (EHS), which is critical to implementing lifesaving measures. Rectal thermometry is the best practice for recognizing EHS, and the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) requires students to learn rectal thermometry. Rooted in transformative learning theory, this study explored the perceptions and experiences of athletic training students following simulated EHS encounters with either high-fidelity (HF) simulators or standardized patients (SPs). Methods: This was a qualitative study using phenomenological theory. Through semi-structured qualitative interviews, we explored participants' personal experiences and perceptions following their simulation interventions. Participants included sixteen first-year Master of Athletic Training students (HF=8, SP=8; 4 males and 4 females in each group) ages 21-38 (23.69±4.48) who were enrolled in a course discussing exertional heat illnesses. Data Analysis: We recorded and transcribed the interviews verbatim. We used qualitative software, Nvivo (Denver, CO), to categorize the data into themes and codes. To ensure trustworthiness, we used member checking and investigator triangulation. Results: Three themes emerged from the data: 1) Simulation environment, 2) Mindset shifts, and 3) Perceptions of other simulation types. Participants from both groups described positive learning experiences in a foreign yet low stakes learning environment emphasizing repetition for learning the skill. The HF group shared beneficial aspects of patient-history-taking opportunities. The SP group shared the benefits and applicability of developing a patient-provider relationship through communicating with their SP. Most participants from both groups could immerse themselves in the encounter for a realistic experience. Both groups discussed how their mindset towards EHS and rectal thermometry changed after their encounter. Lastly, both groups agreed their simulation intervention was superior to practicing on a task trainer. Conclusions: Instructors of athletic training programs should strive to implement realistic simulated encounters for emergency skills training of athletic training students. A safe space for learning in a low-stakes environment should be fostered. Based on the shared perceived benefits of SP encounters for building provider-patient rapport and feedback opportunities, instructors should consider implementing SPs throughout their curriculum.

Additional Files
Appendix A_JSMAHS.docx (16 kB)
Appendix A

Attestation

1

Download

Share

COinS