Top 10 Tips for Successful Standardized Patients

  1. When accepting an Standardized Patient (SP) job, please check over all the documents, making sure that your booking information is correct and that you understand the purpose of your role.
  2. Find helpful ways to learn your script information and make sure you write down any questions or concerns you have about the role to ask at your training.
  3. Arrive at training having learnt the overall gist of the role and be prepared to dry run the scenario with the trainer. If possible, try to come in the clothes that you will wear on the day of your event.
  4. A good trick to use in committing a patient's role to memory is to create a background reference for your character. e.g. What are your hobbies? Do you have any pets?
  5. Make sure you set aside time each day to read over your script and review the details. This ensures that the information will be fresh in your mind when you go to the booking.
  6. Review the feedback ideas. Do you know what type of feedback your character would be required to give at the end of the scenario?
  7. Plan for the event. Do you need make up? Do you have any questions for the facilitators? Are there any props you need to put in place?
  8. Arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes prior to the simulation lab. This will ensure that you have enough time for comfortable and relaxed preparation. BREATHE!
  9. Ask to read the stem or information that the students know about your character before starting the scenario. This may be available during training, as sometimes the facilitators will provide the student instructions with the script information.
  10. When your day is finished, get the facilitator to sign your pay sheet. Shake the role off. If you need to debrief, make sure you have a plan or call our office at 780.248.1204.

HAVE FUN! The more fun that you can have with the role, the more realistic it will be for the students