An International Multicenter Mental Health Standardized Patient Simulation on Nursing Students? Beliefs Toward Mental Health Conditions

Abstract

Background: Negative beliefs can be a barrier to provide quality nursing care for persons living with mental health conditions. This international SP simulation study explored nursing students' beliefs toward persons with mental health conditions in the United States (US) and Turkey before and after participating in a mental health standardized patient simulation. Methods: A quasi-experimental study design was used in two settings in two countries. Measures included a socio-demographic survey and the Beliefs toward Mental Illness scale. Results were analyzed using paired sample t-test, independent t-test, and chi-square tests. Results: Students in the US had significantly lessened negative attitudes toward persons with mental health conditions when compared to the Turkey group. Conclusion: SP simulation may offer opportunities to improve nursing students' beliefs toward persons with mental health conditions.