Open Access Research
Evaluation of a structured drug information services simulation among pharmacy students
Yaman Walid Kassab1,2*
, Kannan Omer Ahmed1, Maitha Mohammed Al-Jabri1, Bisan Murtada Al Mur1, Marwa Younis Salim Al Hashmi1, Tiba Makki1
1Department of Clinical pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, National University of science and technology, Muscat, Oman
2College of pharmacy, Al-Bayan University, Baghdad, Iraq
*Corresponding author: Yaman Walid Kassab, College of Pharmacy, National University of science and technology, Muscat, Oman; Tel.: 0096878875985; e-mail: yamankassab@nu.edu.om
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Published: 2026 ; https://doi.org/10.61873/
Abstract
Background: Drug Information Services (DIS) are an essential component of hospital pharmacy practice, requiring pharmacists to retrieve, evaluate, and communicate evidence-based information. Simulation-based learning may provide students with opportunities to experience realistic drug information inquiries in a controlled educational setting. Aim: To evaluate pharmacy students’ perceptions of a structured DIS simulation and describe their performance during simulated hospital pharmacy drug information activities. Methodology: A prospective descriptive educational study was conducted among 42 fourth-year pharmacy students at the National University of Science and Technology, Oman. Students participated in a structured DIS simulation involving validated hospital-based scenarios. Working in pairs, they received simulated physician inquiries, clarified clinical questions, searched references, communicated responses, and completed documentation. Performance was assessed using a structured rubric, while student perceptions were evaluated through a post-session five-point Likert-scale questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. Results: Students reported positive perceptions regarding the realism and educational value of the simulation. Approximately three-quarters agreed that the activity reflected real hospital practice and supported confidence in handling drug information inquiries, using references, communication, teamwork, and application of theoretical knowledge. Performance assessment indicated satisfactory achievement across the evaluated domains. Conclusion: Students perceived the DIS simulation as a valuable learning experience that supported engagement with hospital pharmacy drug information processes. Further studies using objective assessments and longitudinal follow-up are needed to evaluate its impact on clinical competence and practice readiness.
Keywords: drug information services, simulation-based education, hospital pharmacy, pharmacy students, educational intervention
Please cite as: Kassab Y. W., Ahmed K. O., Al-Jabri M. M., Al Mur B. M., Al Hashmi M. Y. S., Makki T.: Evaluation of a structured drug information services simulation among pharmacy students. Epitheorese Klin. Farmakol. Farmakokinet. xx(xx): xx-xx (2026). DOI: 10.61873/XXXXXXX
pISSN 1011-6575 • eISSN 2945-1914