(3) Interprofessional Simulation to Promote Team Collaboration in the Recognition and Management of Human Trafficking Victims

Abstract: Human trafficking (HT) is a substantial global public health problem and documented to be the fastest growing organized crime enterprise in the world. Effective healthcare training for victim identification, trauma-informed interventions, and community referrals are not included in current graduate education. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate best practices in teaching Nurse Practitioner (NP) students to identify and implement appropriate interventions for victims of HT using a targeted, novel education intervention and interprofessional simulation.

This study was conducted using a mixed method research design with repeated measures. The study used the validated H.O.P.E. Training modules as the education intervention with a pre-test, post-test. Students then participated in focus groups using a phenomenological approach. Students also observed a passive interprofessional simulation with a federal agent, local police detective, social worker, and a NP.

Sixteen NP students participated in the pilot study. From pre-test to post-test, there was an increase in scores for all 16 students. The mean scores increased from 69.5 in the pre-test to 89.2 in the post-test. With a p-value set at 0.05, the results were statistically significant at < 0.001. Confidence also increased for all students. Students were overall pleased with the simulation, describing the simulation as “amazing,” “helpful,” “informative,” and “enjoyable.”

The results of the study provided essential information regarding the best method of incorporating interprofessional human trafficking education into NP curricula. This study adds to the body of knowledge, guides NP and simulation education, and addresses the healthcare needs of this vulnerable population.

Please include a short summary of your presentation that highlights why an attendee would want to view your poster.: The purpose of this presentation is to enable the learner to identify the most efficient methods of presenting material on human trafficking to nurse practitioner students. Also, through this presentation, learners will be able to recognize the use of simulation, as an adjunct to online training, in human trafficking education and its effect on the application of knowledge obtained in online training on human trafficking.