Experiences of simulated patients in a clinical skills laboratory in a school of nursing at a university in the Western Cape Province

Abstract

Nursing simulations using simulated patients have proven effective in creating realistic opportunities to enhance the students’ clinical competence within a safe learning environment. This safe learning environment potentially decreases anxiety and increases self-confidence among students in the health sciences. This qualitative study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of simulated patients in a clinical skills laboratory in the Department of Nursing at a university in the Western Cape Province.