Experience of nursing students with standardized patients in simulation-based learning: Q-methodology study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Simulation-Based Learning
• Standardized Patients

Background:

• Standardized patients (SPs) are recognized for their role in enhancing nursing students' self-confidence, problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and clinical judgment.
• Simulation-based learning provides a controlled environment for students to develop practical skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the experiences of nursing students interacting with standardized patients within a simulation-based learning context.
• To understand student perspectives on the value and impact of standardized patients in their education.

Main Methods:

• Q-methodology was employed to analyze student viewpoints.
• The study involved 47 fourth-year undergraduate nursing students in Seoul, South Korea.
• Participants ranked 42 Q statements regarding their experiences with SPs.

Main Results:

• Three primary viewpoints emerged: SPs are beneficial for patient-centered care, their roles are vital for nursing student learning, and SPs contribute to enhanced nursing competency.
• Student-centered views highlighted the importance of SPs in skill development.

Conclusions:

• Standardized patients significantly contribute to improving nursing students' confidence and overall competency.
• Educators should integrate these identified student viewpoints into simulation-based learning designs to maximize the effectiveness of SPs.