Simulation and mental health outcomes: a scoping review

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Medical Simulation
• Mental Health Training

Background:

• Scoping review to identify literature gaps on simulation's impact on mental health care outcomes.
• Initial search revealed no direct literature on patient outcomes, shifting focus to educational impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map and determine literature gaps regarding simulation in mental health education.
• To examine the educational impact of simulation methods on mental health training.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a five-stage scoping review methodology.
• Searched CINAHL, ProQuest, PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsychINFO databases, alongside grey literature sources.
• Included 48 articles in the review.

Main Results:

• Simulation methods identified include standardized patients, virtual reality, and manikins.
• Standardized patients emerged as the most prevalent simulation technique.
• Studies were predominantly conducted in the USA and UK, with contributions from other countries.

Conclusions:

• Limited evidence exists directly linking simulation to improved mental health patient outcomes.
• Various simulation-based education and training methods are employed in mental healthcare.
• Standardized patient simulation is a common and effective method for mental health education, informing future research on patient outcomes.