Abstract
Pharmacy accreditation standards emphasize the importance of developing professional attitudes and behaviors among students who will demonstrate a commitment to patients, community, and the profession.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate fourth year pharmacy students' observation or demonstration of unprofessional behaviors during Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPEs) or Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) and their perspectives on the potential impact of these behaviors for future rotation placement and employment.
Fourth-year pharmacy students (n = 94) in the Class of 2024 were surveyed regarding unprofessional behaviors observed or demonstrated during their IPPEs and APPEs. Surveys were collected anonymously and retrospectively reviewed for analysis. The institutional review board at the X University School of Pharmacy and Health Professions reviewed and approved this research protocol.
Thirty-four students completed the survey (36 % response rate). Students most frequently reported not demonstrating unprofessional behaviors. Reported behaviors included cutting corners, denial of errors, inappropriate communication, unawareness of limitations, and blaming external factors. Observed behaviors included disorganization, poor teamwork, inappropriate communication, constant cell phone use, and blaming external factors. Fifty-three percent observed unprofessional behaviors from other personnel, 48.5 % from pharmacists or technicians, and 42.4 % from preceptors.
While students understand the importance of professional behavior and its future impact on careers, when unprofessional behaviors occur in practice, they may affect interprofessional relationships, public perception, and patient safety.
•Unprofessional behaviors are observed on IPPEs and APPEs.•Domains are failure to engage, dishonest/disrespectful behavior, and poor self-awareness.•Unprofessional behaviors may impact student ability to secure future rotations or employment.