Simulated Adolescents to Build Empathy and Cultural Care in Bridging Students: A Pilot

Aim The aim of this pilot project study was to explore nursing students’ learning experience of delivering culturally responsive care and empathetic communication skills while working with an adolescent simulated patient. Background Many health care providers voice a lack of confidence in interacting with adolescents. In addition, demonstrating empathetic communication remains a common challenge for many students pursuing careers in the health professions. Furthermore, few studies have explored student performance and empathetic communication in culturally responsive care while working with adolescents. Design The study used a mixed-method design using surveys, faculty observations, and focus groups. Method The study sample consisted of Bridging students (Registered Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing), (n = 29) randomized into groups of 6 to 7 students. Students completed a self-reporting instrument, the Jefferson Scale of Empathy-Health Professions-student (JSE-HPS), before and after the simulation learning experience. Four faculty members participated as simulation observers and completed the Jefferson Scale of Patient Perceptions of Nurse Empathy (JSPPNE). Focus groups were conducted to gain deeper insight into the students’ experiences and perceptions of culturally responsive care and empathetic communication skills. Results Students’ total empathy scores improved after a simulation working with simulated adolescents and mother. Students’ total empathetic scores were higher than faculty observer scores. Focus group data revealed four main themes: cognitive (awareness), understanding (of the patient’s experiences & perspectives), communication skills, and intention to help. See full abstract in PDF.