Deteriorating Patient Scenario for Simulation-Based Training of Difficult Patient Encounters in the Emergency Room

Abstract

The use of standardized patients [SP] in a deteriorating patient scenario [DPS] is a low-fidelity simulation technique, used to enhance conflict resolution skills in the emergency room [ER]. In this report, we describe a DPS simulation session in which SPs act as "difficult patients" in the setting of a busy ER. The purpose is to teach junior trainees how to recognize and learn to manage conflict so that they are better able to deal with future encounters with difficult patients.