Implementation of postgraduate and undergraduate teaching with simulated patients in Psychiatry

Abstract

Background: Clinical simulation is a strategy with broad support especially when face-to-face medical attention is difficult. In Psychiatry, the use and availability of simulation is lower than in other medical specialties, even for remote teaching. Aim: To report a pedagogical experience whose objective was to develop and implement the simulated patient technique as a teaching strategy for psychopathology and face-to-face Psychiatry for Psychiatry residents and remote for undergraduate medical students. Material and Methods: Six residents and 115 medical students participated in the activity. A descriptive qualitative-quantitative study was designed. Surveys were used to measure the quality and satisfaction of clinical simulation and simulation in psychopathology and psychiatry. In addition, an opinion was requested about the activity. All residents and 104 students participated in the assessment. Results: The simulations were satisfactorily evaluated. The participants perceived that the pedagogical activity favored the development of generic competencies and specific skills for general Psychiatry. Conclusions: Simulation in Psychiatry does not replace face-to-face practical teaching, but it is a transitional and complementary method for clinical activities.