Incorporating Clinical Laboratory Science Students into Interprofessional Simulation

INTRODUCTION The laboratory is a vital and dynamic participant on the clinical team in healthcare. However, the laboratory often exists behind the scenes, quietly providing answers to many diagnostic questions while providing a critical role in patient care. It is unfortunate that this hidden nature of the laboratory begins during professional education. In many educational institutions, interprofessional simulations are gaining ground as an excellent way for different professions to work together in a safe environment, preparing them for their future real life experiences.^1,2 In order for these simulations to be effective and authentic, it is crucial for the laboratory to be included.

This manuscript serves as an example of how the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Clinical Laboratory Science Program was able to partner with the Office of Interprofessional Simulation for Advanced Clinical Practice and create an interprofessional simulation that highlighted patient safety, teamwork, and communication.