Problem-based learning in a multidisciplinary group enhances clinical decision making by medical students: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

The effect of multidisciplinary education on clinical decision making by medical students is not well known.

METHODS

Twenty of fourth, fifth or sixth year medical students were randomly assigned to multidisciplinary groups (MultiG, n = 7) with two medical, pharmacy and nursing students or medical student groups (MedG, n = 10) with six medical students only and given a two-day PBL program using evidence-based medicine (EBM) methodology. The main outcome measure is clinical decision making by medical students for the case, measured by a 100 mm visual analog scale (VAS). Additional patient information requested and self-evaluation of the PBL program were also measured.

RESULTS

Correct answers to assess clinical epidemiology knowledge increased significantly in both groups (4.1 to 9.9 points in MultiG, p < 0.001: 3.6 to 9.7 points in MedG, p = 0.002), while scores at baseline and post-program were not significantly different. The number of additional patient information cards requested was not significantly different (p = 0.10). After the program, the VAS for clinical decision making was significantly different (54 mm and 89 mm, p = 0.013), although preprogram values for both groups were similar.

CONCLUSION

Pharmacy and nursing students may have potential to change the clinical decision making by medical students.