Authors
Caitlin McArthur, Sara Ripley, Niousha Alizadehsaravi, Karen Bassett, Marie Earl, Kate Grosweiner, Melanie MacLeod, Daphne Periera
Published in
Physiotherapy Canada. Physiotherapie Canada. Volume 78. Issue 2. Pages 212-219. Epub Apr 06, 2026.
Abstract
Purpose: We described physiotherapy (PT) learner confidence and comfort in engaging in challenging conversations before and after a simulation-based lab and explored how learners found the activity helpful. Method: Quantitative data were collected through three online surveys (before, immediately after, and 3 months after the lab) and analyzed via descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were collected through open-ended survey questions and reflection papers, and analyzed via thematic content analysis. Results: Twenty-two, predominantly female (72.7%) second year entry-level PT learners participated (mean age 25.7 [SD 2.9] years). Learners' confidence or comfort increased 16%-100% after the lab. Learners found the lab to be a valuable learning experience and reported that feedback and observation, realism, and preparation influenced their learning. The lab reinforced and provided new learning about several communication skills like developing a connection and reading non-verbal cues. Some learners had difficulty integrating communication into their perception of PT skills and felt the need to resolve or "fix" the issue. Conclusions: A simulation-based Challenging Conversations Lab was perceived to be a valuable learning experience that may have increased comfort and confidence in engaging in challenging communication scenarios for entry-level PT students.
PMID:
42841096
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 07 Oct 2026.
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