Human Patient Simulators

A New Face in Baccalaureate Nursing Education at Brigham Young University

Bearnson, Carolyn S. MS, RN
Wiker, Kathleen M. MS, RN

Ms. Bearnson and Ms. Wiker are Assistant Professors, Brigham Young University, College of Nursing, Provo, Utah.

Address correspondence to Carolyn S. Bearnson, MS, RN, Assistant Professor, Brigham Young University, College of Nursing, 530 SWKT, Provo, UT 84602; e-mail: [email protected].

Received: September 5, 2003; Accepted: September 27, 2004

Journal of Nursing Education 44(9):p 421-425, September 2005.

Simulation has been used to augment learning in the health care professions. The human patient simulator (HPS) has been used primarily by medical students but is now being used by nursing students, as well. This study explored the benefits and limitations of using an HPS as a patient substitute for one day of actual clinical experience for junior nursing students. Learning outcomes included increased student knowledge, ability, and confidence in medication administration.