(55) Integrating Situational Global Assessment Technique into Telebehavioral Health Standardized Patient Simulation – Simulation Design Informed by Cognitive Load theory

Abstract: This project addresses the INACSL research priority of competency-based assessment to enhance clinical judgment and communication in nursing education. Integrating situational global assessment technique into Telehealth Standardized Patient Simulation (SPS) targets cognitive overload to support pre-licensure nursing students in therapeutic communication, a known challenge due to limited clinical exposure, preparation gaps, and scenario complexity. Drawing on Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) and Situational Awareness (SA) techniques, this project structures the simulation to enhance learning outcomes.

The scenario features a 46-year-old patient, recently discharged after a voluntary hospitalization for suicidal ideation related to frustrations with Parkinson’s disease and chronic depression. The patient reaches out to the outpatient Nurse Line to discuss feelings of isolation and hopelessness. Scenario goals include rapport building, conducting a mental status exam, understanding the patient’s needs and providing patient education. Situational awareness checks, guided by goal-directed task analysis, are introduced at 10 and 25 minutes to balance intrinsic and germane load, segmenting the scenario for manageable progression. Pre-simulation instructions and pre-briefing further minimize extraneous load, allowing students to explore therapeutic strategies without pressure to deliver “correct” responses, thereby optimizing germane load.

By integrating CLT, the SBE provides a structured, progressively challenging environment. This approach empowers students to engage deeply with patient concerns, broaden their communication skills, and deliver effective support without becoming overwhelmed, advancing their clinical readiness in complex telebehavioral health contexts.

Please include a short summary of your presentation that highlights why an attendee would want to view your poster.: This poster presents an innovative telebehavioral health SP simulation for nursing students, informed by Cognitive Load Theory. By integrating situational awareness checks, it addresses cognitive overload, enhancing students’ therapeutic communication, assessment, and patient education skills. Attendees will gain insights on creating structured, progressive simulations that improve clinical judgment and readiness in complex scenarios.