Use of simulated patients in development of physiotherapy students' interpersonal skills

Abstract

Aims Research into the effect of using simulated patients on the self-perceived interpersonal skills of physiotherapy students is limited. This study sought to address this by investigating if such an approach is beneficial. Methods A cohort of 2nd year physiotherapy students (n = 35) completed a validated questionnaire that measured interpersonal (communication) skills at baseline (3 weeks before simulated patient interaction), and at follow-up (1 week following interaction). Paired t-tests were used to identify statistically significant shifts in perceived interpersonal skills. Findings Mean (baseline) anxiety and confidence scores were 11.9 (SD) and 13.8 (SD) respectively. Following interaction with simulated patients there was a significant improvement in mean anxiety (11) and confidence scores (15) (P<0.05). Conclusions Interaction with simulated patients appears to reduce student anxiety and increase confidence in communicating with patients.