Standardized Patient Information

What is a Standardized Patient? 

A Standardized Patient (SP) is a person trained to portray or “play” a patient in a consistent fashion for the purpose of teaching and/or testing the medical/nursing/ or physical therapy DPT students.  The SP is trained to portray a set of symptoms and give a medical history much like they would in a ‘real life’ situation.  Additionally, the SPs are trained to give feedback on each student’s performance. 

What will SPs be used for?

SPs will be trained to objectively assess student’s clinical skills – how well they utilize interpersonal and communication skills, take a history, and perform a physical exam.  Physical exams frequently require the SP to wear a gown, much the same as one does when visiting their own physician’s office.  Invasive procedures are only done with prior consent.

Who can be a standardized patient?

Almost anyone can be a SP.  There are no particular requirements for this role except the ability to memorize a script and act it out in a consistent and realistic manner.  SPs do not specifically have to be actors; however, an acting background can make for a rich SP experience.  SPs need to be able to maintain their role for up to five hours (this would be ten minute intervals for sixteen (16) students).  If you tire easily, or have a medical condition that makes it difficult to act out physical and behavioral symptoms for this amount of time, you may wish to check to see if we have other opportunities available to serve as an SP for a shorter period of time. 

What is required of a SP?

SPs must be on time, and prepared for all training, skills and exam sessions.  SPs must keep all information regarding the role they are playing and the case they are testing confidential from the students.

Are their benefits to being an SP?

YES!  You are a valuable member of the assessment team, providing immediate and direct feedback on the student’s performance and skills in communicating, history and physical examination. 

How do I get more information?

Please contact Dawn M. Schocken at 974-8740 in the Center for Advanced Clinical Learning to learn more on how you can participate in this exciting and enriching program.