Gray Matters: Teaching Geriatric Assessment for Family Nurse Practitioners Using Standardized Patients

• A geriatric assessment case scenario using standardized patients (SPs) was well developed and realistic for Family Nurse Practitioner students
• Immediate feedback from SPs with the “safety” of practicing this clinical skill was helpful
• Students used evidence-based resources to collectively devise a plan of care

Research supporting use of standardized patients in health professional education is strong. Evidence suggests integrating the use of standardized patients into clinical training provides learners with interactive practice in gaining and perfecting clinical skills, in becoming competent in communication skills for provision of health care, and results in improved satisfaction for faculty and students. Comprehensive geriatric assessment was chosen as the focus of this simulation so that Family Nurse Practitioner students could begin to integrate theoretical course concepts into clinical experiences.