Experience of nursing students with standardized patients in simulation-based learning: Q-methodology study

Background: Standardized patients (SPs) boost self-confidence, improve problem solving, enhance critical thinking, and advance clinical judgment of nursing students.

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine nursing students' experience with SPs in simulation-based learning.

Design: Q-methodology was used.

Setting: Department of nursing in Seoul, South Korea.

Participants: Fourth-year undergraduate nursing students (n = 47).

Methods: A total of 47 fourth-year undergraduate nursing students ranked 42 Q statements about experiences with SPs into a normal distribution grid.

Results: The following three viewpoints were obtained: 1) SPs are helpful for patient care (patient-centered view), 2) SPs roles are important for nursing student learning (SPs roles-centered view), and 3) SPs can promote competency of nursing students (student-centered view).

Conclusion: These results indicate that SPs may improve nursing students' confidence and nursing competency. Professors should reflect these three viewpoints in simulation-based learning to effectively engage SPs.