Authors

  1. Walsh, Julianne A. MSN, RN

Article Content

During the COVID-19 crisis, we developed a virtual simulation telehealth experience to replace a preexisting home visit scenario we were using. We modified the 30-minute, standardized patient (SP) scenario to a telehealth format. The patient living alone in a rural environment had a diabetic foot ulcer and psychosocial issues such as alcohol use and functional decline. Small groups of 5 to 6 students each (n = 34) took turns interviewing the patient in his home through Zoom. Learning outcomes focused on a comprehensive assessment. Text messaging via cellphones was used by the facilitator to prompt the SP during the scenario. The debriefing included working the 6 steps of the Clinical Judgment Assessment Model (https://www.ncsbn.org/13444.htm) and was followed by a facilitator-led guided reflective journal and completion of an evaluation tool survey. Data suggested that the main learning objectives students achieved were using therapeutic communication and increasing skills in managing telehealth. One student's written reflection described the experience as follows: "Prior to this, explaining something and demonstrating it went hand-in-hand with one another, making it easier to teach patients new skills. Just being able to communicate virtually showed me how important it is to provide therapeutic communication as well as think 'outside of the box.'"