Lead Author: Kelly V. Johnson, EdD, RN
Submitted by: Marsha Harman, Rush University

Utilizing standardized patients (SPs) as a strategy to potentially improve beginning level nursing students’ confidence, satisfaction, and communication after simulated clinical cases is an innovative approach in nursing education. To examine how an SP encounter affects these three things, first semester undergraduate nursing students completed a simulation either an SP or high-fidelity manikin. Students who completed the simulation with an SP reported greater satisfaction and improved communication.

Student reflective comments were significantly more positive in the SP group. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in self-confidence, but it is suggested that a larger sample size could provide enough data for statistical significance. Student satisfaction and communication are key components for nursing student success. The impact of SPs and the effect on student outcomes could have long-term benefits for undergraduate nursing programs.

Read the full article in Sage Open Nursing here.

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