Abstract
Abstract
Simulation plays an important role in preparing undergraduate nursing students for clinical practice by fostering communication skills and building confidence. Currently, simulation experiences often depend on faculty and staff to play the roles of patients or family members. Research shows that nursing students can be effectively trained to serve as standardized patients, creating opportunities for peer-supported learning and improving simulation experiences. This evidence-based practice proposal recommends the implementation of a 1-credit-hour Student Standardized Patient (SSP) elective in the undergraduate nursing curriculum for senior level nursing students. The elective would provide structured training in role portrayal, safety practices, and case preparation, aligned with the Association of Standardized Patient Educators (ASPE) Standards of Best Practice. Anticipated outcomes include improved communication confidence, enhanced realism, reduced faculty role strain, and a sustainable model for strengthening communication-focused simulation across the curriculum. This proposal offers a practical and evidence-based strategy to address an identified program need while promoting leadership development and professional growth among nursing students.
Keywords: simulation-based education, standardized patients, student standardized patients, undergraduate nursing education, communication skills, peer-assisted learning
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Christine Hober
Department/Program
Nursing
Submission Type
online only poster
Date
3-29-2026
Rights
Copyright the Author(s)
Recommended Citation
McQueen, Katie J.
(2026)
"Implementing a Student Standardized Patient Elective to Improve Communication and Confidence in Undergraduate Nursing Simulation,"
SACAD: Scholarly Activities: Vol. 2026, Article 132.
Available at:
https://scholars.fhsu.edu/sacad/vol2026/iss2026/132
