Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 24, 2025

E-Patient Counseling Trial E-PACO: Computer Based Education versus Nurse Counseling for Patients to Prepare for Colonoscopy
Published on: August 1, 2019
Virtual patient educational intervention for the development of shared decision-making skills: a pilot study
Simon Jacklin1, Stephen Chapman1, Neal Maskrey1
1School of Pharmacy, Keele University, Keele, UK.
This study piloted a virtual patient (VP) to practice shared decision-making (SDM) skills. The VP was found enjoyable and accessible, though the multiple-choice format may be restrictive for experienced professionals.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Health Informatics
- Patient-Centered Care
Background:
- Shared decision-making (SDM) is crucial for patient-centered care but requires practice.
- Current SDM training may not be sufficient.
- Virtual reality (VR) offers a potential solution for practicing SDM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To pilot an interactive, high-fidelity virtual patient (VP) simulating SDM in primary care.
- To assess the feasibility and user experience of the VP for SDM training.
Main Methods:
- Academic pharmacists and doctors participated in the study.
- Participants completed pre- and post-questionnaires to evaluate the VP experience.
- The VP simulated a primary care consultation incorporating SDM.
Main Results:
- 18 participants (14 pharmacists, 4 doctors) completed the study.
- 89% found the VP enjoyable, and 72% found it accessible.
- Participant feedback on the response system varied, with some finding it restrictive.
Conclusions:
- The virtual patient (VP) is an enjoyable and thought-provoking tool for SDM practice.
- The VP could be beneficial across various career stages.
- The multiple-choice interaction style may limit experienced users.
Related Concept Videos
Patient-centered Care
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Nursing Process for Patient and Caregiver Teaching II: Planning and Implementation
Nursing Process for Patient and Caregiver Teaching I: Assessment and Diagnosis
It is critical to determine the patient's learning needs during the assessment. Determination of learning needs compounds data...
Coronary Artery Disease V: Interprofessional Care
Community Based Intervention
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...

