Dyspnea in a Hospitalized Patient: Using Simulation to Introduce Interprofessional Collaborative Practice Concepts

This simulation-based learning activity is designed to introduce interprofessional collaborative practice concepts through the clinical management of a hospitalized patient experiencing dyspnea. Grounded in TeamSTEPPS principles, the activity places learners from multiple health professions into mixed teams where they must assess, communicate, and intervene in a rapidly evolving patient-care scenario. Participants apply discipline-specific clinical knowledge while practicing structured communication strategies, role clarity, leadership, and shared decision-making. The simulation emphasizes teamwork as a core patient-safety competency and aims to improve learner self-efficacy in interprofessional communication and coordinated clinical response within an acute care setting.

Target Learners 

This activity is intended for: 

• Senior or graduating medical students 

• Nursing students with clinical experience 

• Physician assistant students 

• Pharmacy students beginning clinical rotations 

• Other health professions learners preparing for team-based clinical environments 

Learners should have foundational knowledge in patient assessment and basic management of dyspnea but do not require advanced clinical specialization. 

Equipment Needed 

Simulation Modality 

• Standardized patient with Ventriloscope or 

• High-fidelity manikin with cardiac and pulmonary sound capability 

Hospital Room Setup 

• Hospital bed with linens 

• Bedside table 

• Telemetry monitor 

• Blood pressure cuff 

• Pulse oximeter 

• ECG electrodes (optional) 

• Patient ID band 

• Examination gloves 

• Hand hygiene supplies 

• Stethoscope 

Respiratory Equipment 

• Nasal cannula 

• Nonrebreather mask 

• Oxygen flow meter 

• Pulse oximeter probe 

IV / Medication Equipment 

• IV pole and tubing 

• Lactated Ringer’s solution bags 

• Simulated blood product 

• Syringes (3 mL and 5 mL) 

• Simulated medications: 

• • Furosemide 

• • Morphine 

• • Nitroglycerin 

• • Aspirin 

• Alcohol wipes 

• Oral medication cups 

Diagnostic / Monitoring Resources 

• Desktop computer or printed diagnostics 

• Emergency department history and physical 

• Laboratory results 

• Chest X-ray image/report 

Additional Supplies 

• Foley catheter with tubing and collection bag 

• Simulated urine output system 

• Lab draw tubes (no needles) 

Personnel 

• Interprofessional faculty facilitators 

• Simulation lab technician 

• Standardized patient (if used) 

Estimated Time to Complete Activity 

Total Estimated Time:
~90–120 minutes per learner group