Introducing basic principles of medication safety: Development of a three-day continuing education course for health care professionals

Abstract

ObjectiveTo develop innovative educational approaches for introducing medication safety principles for health care professionals as a three-day interdisciplinary course. Educational activityThe data for developing the educational activity were collected at a workshop at the 2009 International Life-Long Learning in Pharmacy Conference. A total of 19 higher education and adult learning experts in pharmacy brainstormed four syllabi using teaching and assessment methods. Qualitative content analysis was used to develop a combined syllabus. All four syllabi involved constructive, problem-based learning with personal learning objectives and reflection, and methods for facilitating interactive learning and learning at the workplace. This focused on understanding a systems approach in managing medication safety. The phases of learning covered pre- and post-course learning and learning during the course. One month’s period between training days was suggested. ConclusionsOur work suggests that constructive problem-based learning linked to learners’ practice through assignments is the key in a continuing education course on medication safety for health care professionals. A significant amount of learning occurs outside the training days through assignments.