Throughout the medical curriculum, we train undergraduate medical students in the skills, attitudes and behaviours expected of tomorrow’s doctors. As a simulated patient, you contribute to this process by helping our students develop interviewing, communication and examination skills in a risk free environment. Some commonly asked questions about being a simulated patient:
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What is a simulated patient? |
A Simulated Patient (SP) is sometimes referred to as a 'standardised patient' or a 'patient actor'. The SP plays the role of someone visiting the doctor, who is portrayed by a medical student. A simulated or standardized patient is a healthy person who has been trained to realistically reproduce the history, physical and emotional findings of an actual case.
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Who can be a simulated patient? |
Any healthy individual who is willing to make a contribution to medical and dental education. SPs come from all walks of life and bring a variety of experiences with them. They generally have an interest in education and personal health. They have excellent communication skills, and are patient with those who are learning new skills.
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What training will I receive? |
There is an initial training for all SPs. Some SPs will be asked to work with students who are practicing a certain skill. Others are used during exams to evaluate how well students have learned skills. Regardless of which the SP is used for, the training will enable the SPs to be effective in their specific role or case. During training sessions, there will be opportunities to ask questions, do some role-playing, and critique each others performance.
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How should I conduct my self? |
It is important to remember:
- Personal hygiene
- Your feet may be exposed!
- Attire depends on skill being examined
- Usually require t-shirt / shorts
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What do I need to expose? |
Male patients should be willing to expose chest, spine, limbs & abdomen. Female patients should be willing to expose limbs, neck & abdomen. However, SPs are usually told when being booked what teaching or examination they will be taking part in.
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Confidentiality |
At times we use simulated patients for professional university examinations (OSCEs). It is therefore vital that any role plays that you carry out are confidential and not passed on to any students.
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How do I prepare for a skills session? |
Prior to the day check
- Time / Date / Venue
- Know which skill you are simulating
- Revise and rehearse skill
- Proper attire for skill
On the day
- Notify staff that you have arrived
- Inform of any medical problems or symptoms
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Need for consistency |
We require simulated patients to carry out their roles in a highly consistent fashion. This creates equal circumstances for teaching and assessment of students.
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History role play |
When role playing a history – you should only answer when specifically asked a question For example when asked “What problems brought you here today” Rather than answering “Central Chest pain for the last 3 months” you should state “Chest pain”.
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Video recording |
At times for educational purposes we may video-record a session or place photo graphs on our web site. If you are unhappy about this please inform the staff prior to the session.
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