Simulation in Learning and Using the Nutrition Care Process/Terminology: Experiences and Perceptions of Dietitians in Canada

Can J Diet Pract Res. 2020 Sep 1;81(3):150-153. doi: 10.3148/cjdpr-2020-010. Epub 2020 Jun 4.

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate experiences with, and perceptions of, simulation in learning and using the Nutrition Care Process/Terminology (NCP/T) of dietitians in Canada. Methods: In February-March 2017, a convenience sample of 382 dietitians in Canada (71.8% in clinical practice) completed an online survey regarding the type(s), setting(s), and perceptions of the simulations in which they engaged in learning and using the NCP/T. Results: A majority (76.7%) of respondents had engaged in NCP/T-related simulation, most commonly case studies (85.3%) and role-play (42.0%), as part of workplace/volunteer training (51.4%) and undergraduate internship/stage/practicum (34.2%). Nearly half (49.5%) of respondents learned all 4 NCP components via simulation, with Nutrition Diagnosis being the most common individual component (57%). Over three-quarters of respondents agreed/strongly agreed that simulation helped them better understand/use the NCP/T and that NCP/T-related knowledge/skills gained through simulation are transferable to the clinical setting/dietetic practice. Conclusions: Dietitians in Canada perceive simulation to have helped them learn and use the NCP/T. Resources should be directed at further developing simulation for teaching the NCP/T in dietetics education and training. Research investigating characteristics, barriers, and facilitators of effective NCP/T-simulation, using objective (vs. perceived) learning outcome measures is needed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Canada
  • Dietetics* / education
  • Humans
  • Internship and Residency
  • Learning
  • Nutrition Therapy
  • Nutritional Physiological Phenomena*
  • Nutritional Status*
  • Nutritionists* / education
  • Surveys and Questionnaires