Using Scenario-Based Simulation to Address Affective Behaviors in Sonography Students

Simulation in health care education is considered an educational strategy in which a particular set of conditions is created or replicated to resemble authentic situations that are possible in real life. This research study records sonography student self-reflected confidence levels in three patient care scenarios using pre- and postsimulation surveys and debriefing strategies. Student confidence improved in (1) explaining the examination, (2) prepping the patient, and (3) performing the examination. In addition, students stated they had more confidence in what to do when a negative outcome is communicated to the patient. They also expressed greater appreciation for the importance of institutional policies that guide patient care. Research is ongoing to determine whether the simulation lab experience correlates to improved student performance in the actual clinical setting. This research occurred in a simulation lab but could be replicated by using high-fidelity sonography simulators and assigning an actor to interact with student learners.