Work

Effect of two teaching methods on nursing students' acquisition of patient-centered communication competence in older people care: a cluster randomized trial

Year: 2024

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: Introduction: Patient-centered communication is an essential skill in nursing, particularly in the care of older adult patients. However, generation Z nursing students, who primarily communicate through digital platforms, face unique challenges in adapting to traditional face-to-face communication with older adults. As a result, there is a need for teaching methods that align with this generation's learning style to enhance their communication skills. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two teaching methods-standardized patient simulation and role-play-on nursing students' acquisition of patient-centered communication competence in older people care. Methods: A controlled cluster-randomized trial was conducted with 124 nursing students, divided into eight teaching groups. Students participated in either a standardized patient simulation or a role-play workshop, each consisting of a 1.5-h online module and a 1.5-h face-to-face session. The three components of patient-centered communication competence-knowledge, skills, and self-efficacy-were assessed using simulated scenarios at pre-test, post-test, and 6-week follow-up. Between-group and within-group differences were measured based on the number of students who achieved competence. Results: Both interventions significantly improved students' knowledge, skills, and self-efficacy in patient-centered communication between pre- and post-tests, with improvements maintained at follow-up. No significant differences were found between the two methods. Conclusions: Both standardized patient simulation and role-play are effective in enhancing patient-centered communication competence in older people care. However, neither method was found to be superior in teaching knowledge, skills, or self-efficacy.

Source: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1510620

Authors: Alda Elena Cortés-Rodríguez, María Mar López-Rodríguez, Pablo Roman, José Granero-Molina, Cayetano Fernández-Sola, José Manuel Hernández-Padilla

Institutions: University of Almería, Universidad Autónoma de Chile

Language: English

Topic: Simulation-Based Education in Healthcare

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,295