Standardized Patent Educational Course Video Promo:

(Note: Video Course Learning Management System Layout Appears Differently as Course is Now on HealthySimulation.com)

SP Training Course Abstract:

This certificate course provides comprehensive foundational training for individuals serving as Standardized Patients (SPs), aka Simulated Patients, within healthcare simulation, education and training programs. Designed for both new and experienced SPs, the course introduces the history, purpose, and evolving role of standardized patients in simulation-based education while emphasizing professionalism, safety, standardization, and high-quality feedback delivery.

Participants will explore key simulation concepts, including formative versus high-stakes simulations, character development and portrayal, individual and team standardization, and the SP’s role in learner assessment and debriefing. Through video-based simulations, guided reflection, quizzes, and applied writing assignments, learners will develop the skills needed to authentically portray patient roles, maintain consistency across simulations, and provide structured, learner-centered feedback using established best practices.

The course places strong emphasis on SP psychological safety, professionalism, and ethical responsibilities, including de-rolling, boundary setting, and effective communication with simulation faculty. Upon completion, participants will be prepared to function as confident, reliable, and professional standardized patients who contribute meaningfully to high-quality healthcare education.

Simulated Patient Training Course Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the history and purpose of standardized patients in healthcare simulation and identify key terminology used in simulation-based education.
2. Differentiate between formative and high-stakes simulations and explain how each impacts the role, expectations, and preparation of the standardized patient.
3. Demonstrate effective character development skills by accurately interpreting and portraying character descriptions, backstories, interaction guidelines, and patient affect.
4. Apply principles of individual and team standardization to ensure consistent, reliable SP performance across repeated simulation encounters.
5. Identify and uphold SP safety and professionalism standards, including physical safety, psychological safety, use of safe words, and appropriate communication with simulation faculty.
6. Deliver structured, learner-focused feedback using the standardized feedback format, incorporating specific moments, patient-centered emotions, and the sandwich technique.
7. Distinguish between feedback and evaluation and articulate the SP’s role within the debriefing and analysis phases of simulation.
8. Recognize ethical boundaries and advocacy responsibilities of standardized patients, including confidentiality, professionalism, and appropriate self-advocacy.
9. Demonstrate effective preparation strategies for simulation participation, including pre-simulation readiness, emotional regulation, and post-simulation de-rolling.
10. Reflect on personal growth and competence as a standardized patient, using pre- and post-course self-assessment to evaluate confidence, comfort, and performance in simulation.