Comparison of the effect of role-playing and team-based learning on interpersonal communication skills of emergency medical personnels

Introduction

Effective communication and interpersonal skills among medical emergency staff enhance service quality, reduce errors, boost patient satisfaction, and decrease stress. Role-playing and team-based learning are key methods to improve these skills, but determining the most effective approach is challenging. This study aimed to compare the impact of these 2 methods on the interpersonal communication skills of medical emergency staff at Abadan University of Medical Sciences in 2024.

Material and methods

This study used a semi-experimental pre-test–post-test design, targeting medical emergency staff at Abadan University of Medical Sciences in 2024. Sixty-eight eligible staff members were chosen through convenience sampling and assigned to 2 groups: role-playing and team-based learning. Data collection involved a demographic form and Wheeless et al.'s interpersonal communication skills questionnaire. Analysis was performed using SPSS version 22, with a significance level established at P < .05.

Results

The 2 groups had similar demographic characteristics (P > .05). Before the intervention, the mean score for interpersonal communication skills was 15.46 ± 93.97 in the team-based learning group and 14.30 ± 94.76 in the role-playing group, with no significant difference (P = .82). Post-intervention scores improved to 119.38 ± 11.96 for team-based learning and 131.76 ± 10.51 for role-playing, showing significant improvement, especially in the role-playing group (P = .001).

Conclusion

The study shows role-playing and team-based learning enhance medical emergency staff's communication skills, with role-playing being more effective. Both methods are recommended, emphasizing role-playing for skill enhancement.