ABSTRACT Aim To investigate the effects of integrating standardized patients with the situational simulation teaching method (SSTM) on nursing interns' learning outcomes, work capabilities and engagement in the respiratory department. Background Traditional simulation methods may lack realism and interactivity. Combining standardized patients with SSTM may provide a more immersive and effective teaching strategy. Design A randomized controlled trial. Methods This randomized controlled trial compared the outcomes of traditional SSTM versus a combined standardized patient and SSTM approach. From April 2022 to April 2023, 108 nursing interns were randomly assigned to either a control group (traditional SSTM) or a research group (combined SSTM and standardized patients). Outcomes measured included theoretical and practical knowledge, self‐directed learning, work engagement, caregiving skills, self‐efficacy, stress levels and teaching evaluations. Results Nursing interns in the research group showed significant improvements in theoretical and practical knowledge, autonomous learning, work engagement, caregiving skills and self‐efficacy, with a reduction in stress levels. Teaching evaluations rated the research group higher across multiple aspects. Conclusion The integration of standardized patients with SSTM is an effective educational strategy that enhances learning outcomes, practical capabilities and motivation among nursing interns, offering a valuable approach for better preparing students for clinical practice.
Zhang et al. (Wed,) studied this question.