Implementing an elective toxicology course through integration of emergency medicine resident physicians into didactic lectures

Abstract

ObjectivesTo design, implement, and evaluate an elective clinical toxicology course through the integration of emergency medicine physicians into case-based lectures to pharmacy students. DesignAn introductory clinical toxicology course with an emphasis on overdose prevention, overdose patient diagnosis/assessment, and general medical management approaches was developed. Interprofessional interaction opportunity for pharmacy students was provided through integration of emergency medicine resident physicians into didactic lectures. Case-based lectures were created and delivered throughout the course to illustrate the application of the general toxicology knowledge to patient care. AssessmentThe outcome of the course design and implementation were assessed through students’ self-assessment survey, standard course evaluation, and overall course grades from class students. ConclusionStudents perceived the integration of emergency medicine resident physicians as beneficial. The course design promoted students to value different viewpoints, and the method of content delivery helped them to develop real world professional skills through interprofessional interactions. The course survey, evaluations, and overall course grades demonstrated that the course met its predefined educational outcome.