The impact of simulation on people who act as simulated patients: a focus group study

Abstract

Although the SPs were found to experience negative effects caused by playing patient roles, the frequency and intensity of the negative effects were minor. The focus group discussions led to various suggestions for measures to reduce the impact of simulation.

Older people’s views and experiences of engagement in standardised patient simulation

“…For example, participants suggested that the involvement of older people in SPS added authenticity and value to sessions, which they felt supported the development of students' caring skills. [17,18] The study found that engaging in SPS can lead to increased knowledge of health topics, [20,21] but that it can be fatiguing. [27,28] However, the findings of this study also indicated that involving older people in this type of education initiative may be beneficial for their own personal wellbeing.…”

The impact of repeated simulation on health and healthcare perceptions of simulated patients

“…Simulating can give more self-confidence and awareness. These positive effects were also found in at least one other study [5]. So at first sight, the fear that it is harmful to use human beings as 'didactical tool', can be rejected.…”

“…However, even well selected and trained SPs experience stress and anxiety before the performance; as found in other studies [4][5][6]. Both emotions probably contribute positively to the performance; it is acknowledged that some stress in relation to performance is necessary and useful.…”

“…Two years later, the same researchers conducted a qualitative focus group study, SPs reported more negative effects: exhaustion, dissatisfaction, physical complaints and continuing to feel like or act like the person portrayed. These effects were influenced by the type of role, the number of performances, having to give feedback, experience in a role and the response of the students; the effects lasted for a short time during and/or after the performance [5].…”

“…Literature of studies on side effects reveals two main areas: influences of simulating on personal health and influences on the perception of and contact with their own health care provider (HCP) [4][5][6][7][8][9].…”