The University of Michigan-Flint’s School of Nursing (SON) emphasizes enhancing future nurses’ communication skills through realistic health care simulations. By employing standardized patients (SPs), nursing students gain vital experience in patient interviews, physical exams, and interpersonal interactions. These carefully designed scenarios aim to cultivate empathy and effective communication with diverse patient populations.
In 2016, the SON’s Center for Simulation & Clinical Innovation, under the leadership of Professor Carman Turkelson, broadened its standardized patient simulations. These simulations expose students to a variety of cultural, age, gender, and diagnostic backgrounds, offering rich learning opportunities.
“Using standardized patient simulation-based experiences with intentional scenario design creates opportunities for learners to practice situations that teach effective communication and how to handle challenging circumstances that require compassionate treatment of diverse patient populations,” Turkelson said. “Future nurses need opportunities to practice and develop competency with these essential skills, including learning how to engage with high-risk populations who experience homelessness, substance use disorders, and other social biases that affect the overall health care system within a psychologically safe environment. At UM-Flint, we are thrilled to be able to offer these unique experiences in collaboration with our SPs to help our students prepare for the practice setting.”
Key contributors to UM-Flint’s program include Dennis and Edna Robinson, a mother-son team whose dedication enriches the students’ learning experience.
Years ago, Dennis and Edna Robinson, passionate about drama and education, joined UM-Flint’s SP program. Edna, 90, remains active, showcasing age is no barrier. Dennis explained, “My sister-in-law, who works at Hurley Medical Center, mentioned UM-Flint needed SPs. As lifelong enthusiasts of the dramatic arts, my mom and I thought it might be fun and submitted our applications. We were thrilled to get a response from the university in just four days!”
The Robinsons find it rewarding to observe students’ growth from initial apprehension to confident handling of complex scenarios.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to watch students enter the nursing program with initial fears and uncertainties, and then grow over the years to handle scenarios confidently,” Dennis Robinson said. From their first semester to graduation, the Robinsons witness students evolve into capable practitioners ready for real-world challenges.
“Being part of their journey from start to finish is something truly special,” said Dennis Robinson. “We see students progress not just in their technical skills but also in their ability to communicate and empathize with patients. It’s a privilege to watch them grow into the kind of health care professionals who are ready to make a difference.”
“The Robinsons’ continued involvement in the program not only enhances the student experience but also enriches the standardized patient program itself,” said Turkelson. “Their ongoing commitment and passion for teaching underscore the impactful role that standardized patients play in preparing nursing students for the multifaceted challenges of their future careers. Through their participation, they ensure that our students graduate with not only the confidence and competence necessary for effective health care delivery across a wide range of settings but also the empathy and understanding required to connect with diverse patient populations.”
SON encourages those interested in helping future health care workers improve their communication and assessment skills to apply as SPs. Applicants should be 18 or older, with additional training or health care experience preferred but not essential. Diverse backgrounds are welcome, as unique experiences enhance program diversity.
Interested individuals can apply to the Standardized Patient Program via the program’s website.
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