Effectiveness of live simulation of patients with intellectual disabilities

This study investigated the use of live simulation using simulated patients portraying people with intellectual disabilities. The study sample consisted of 173 health students. Using the simulation framework of Jeffries, students worked in groups of three; each student participated in at least one interaction with a simulated patient while the facilitator and other students in the group provided peer reflections. Students were given a specific task to complete with the patient simulator (e.g., obtaining a blood pressure reading). Student self-confidence and satisfaction with the simulation was measured using a questionnaire followed by students' personal reflections and focus group feedback. Results indicate that students highly valued the simulation and thought it positively influenced direct care to patients with learning disabilities.