An innovative patient interview activity in a women's health elective

Abstract Background and purpose To develop, integrate, and evaluate an innovative women's health and sexual health history interview activity in an elective course for pharmacy students. Educational activity and setting Students reflected on personal experiences where a healthcare provider addressed sensitive health-related topics. Students used this reflection and other resources to prepare for and conduct an interview with an adult woman. Students wrote a reflection paper describing their interview experience. Female participants provided feedback on student performance via an anonymous, electronic survey. Analysis of student reflection papers explored the impact of students’ personal health care experiences on their approach with the participant and achievement of activity learning objectives. Findings In 2015 and 2016, 38 of 51 (74.5%) participants interviewed completed the survey. In response to open-ended questions about student performance, 47% of participants stated the student helped them feel comfortable, 44% said the student was professional, and 13% stated the student seemed nervous or uncomfortable. All participants agreed or strongly agreed students used appropriate communication to obtain health information and asked sensitive questions professionally. Among 51 student reflections, all students were able to describe how their experience influenced them, and most described its application to future practice. Further reflection paper analysis revealed students tried to emulate behaviors, attitudes, and skills seen in personal encounters with clinicians. Examples of behaviors included empathy and patient-centered communication. Discussion and summary Students achieved the activity learning objectives. Authors felt this unique activity may help students prepare for challenging patient interviews encountered in future practice.