Impact of diabetes simulation on empathy in pharmacy students

Abstract

Objective. To assess the impact of a diabetes simulation activity on empathy in pharmacy students. Methods. Students enrolled in an elective diabetes course were required to complete a 3-day diabetes simulation. Pre- and post-activity survey questions were administered to assess the effect of the simulation activity on empathy. Students maintained daily logs of their actual blood glucose readings (tested twice a day), pre-meal simulated blood glucose readings, and simulated insulin doses. Students were required to take a placebo oral medication and to respond (and document their approach) to a simulated hypo- or hyperglycemic event. Results. The pre- and post-activity survey results indicated statistically significant changes in responses regarding empathy. Conclusion. This 3-day diabetes simulation increased student empathy and confidence in managing select aspects of diabetes.