Unravelling laboratory results: A dynamic, interactive pharmacy workshop across multiple sites.

Abstract

Introduction: A novel multi-site interactive education workshop was developed at a large Australian metropolitan health service in June 2024. The one-hour workshop encompassed live-streamed presentations, a case study and in-person facilitator-led discussions, conducted simultaneously across seven sites. It aimed to support pharmacists' professional development in interpreting patient laboratory results and address challenges with engaging a diverse workforce in education. This study evaluated participants' workshop experiences, as an opportunity to cultivate life-long learning in pharmacy. Method(s): This retrospective convergent mixed-methods study analysed pharmacists' responses to an online post-workshop survey and anonymous word cloud reflection, visually depicting response frequency by word size. A 5-point Likert scale evaluated presentation content, case-study suitability and delivery mode. Open ended questions gathered information on attendee learning experiences and future topic suggestions. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data through inductive thematic analysis. Result(s): The workshop had 139 attendees of 428 department pharmacists. The post-evaluation survey was completed by 101 (73%) participants and 82 (59%) responses submitted via word cloud reflection. Respondents strongly agreed or agreed that the workshop achieved learning outcomes (96%), was worthwhile (95%), well presented (94%), up to date (94%) and satisfactory overall (93%). Ninety-two percent of participants found the workshop stimulated meaningful discussion, engaging and suitably delivered with supportive facilitators. Word cloud responses revealed that participants enjoyed the workshop's collaborative and interactive nature. Learning highlights included evaluating results for paediatric patients and developing renal and hepatic function assessment skills. Suggestions for future sessions included allocating more time for case discussion, extension to other laboratory tests (including therapeutic drug monitoring), and topics tailored to clinical practice areas. Conclusion(s): This dynamic, interactive pharmacy workshop achieved overall satisfaction, learning outcomes and supported collaborative learning. The workshop provides a framework for large organisations to support workforce education across many sites and engage practitioners in life-long learning.