Home Visit Simulation Using a Standardized Patient

BackgroundThe use of standardized patients (SPs) in home health applications in nursing education is relatively new. This study analyzes student perceptions of a home visit simulation experience as part of community health clinical rotations.MethodThis descriptive study explores the effectiveness of student satisfaction, self-confidence, and the effectiveness of student learning in a home visit simulation with an SP. Study participants included 76 undergraduate nursing students from a Southeastern university enrolled in a senior-level community health nursing course.ResultsThe findings of the quantitative and qualitative data indicated that students were highly satisfied with their simulated home visit experience and generally felt confident in their ability in learning during the simulation.ConclusionsUse of the SP during the home visit simulation was well received by students as a valuable learning experience and could be expanded for use in community health and other clinical courses.