Using simulation to promote effective communication with a diverse student population

Because of language barriers and cultural differences, effective oral and therapeutic communication remains a challenge to the linguistically diverse student. The purpose of this article is to introduce high-fidelity patient simulation (HFPS) as a teaching/learning method to develop and practice therapeutic and oral communication skills with a diverse student population. A newly established HFPS communication exercise was introduced to associate degree registered nursing students in their psychiatric–mental health nursing course. Students participated in unrehearsed interactive interviews with simulated clients in an effort to improve their verbal and therapeutic communication skills. Feedback on whether this was a successful strategy was sought from the students by means of reflective papers.