Development of Telemedicine Simulations Addressing Social Determinants of Health

Abstract

Background: Five telemedicine simulations were created during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic to elucidate implicit biases and enhance awareness of social determinants of health among nursing students. Social determinants affect overall health, functioning, and quality-of-life outcomes and risks. Implicit biases are related to patient-provider interactions, treatment decisions and adherence, and ultimately patient health outcomes.

Purpose: This article explains the simulation development and content, describes the student learning outcomes, and presents faculty insights that highlight the necessity of simulation experiences in nursing education.

Method: Five telemedicine simulations that presented different social determinants of health and implicit biases were created for undergraduate nursing students.

Results: Nursing students increased knowledge related to social determinants and their own implicit biases.

Conclusion: Telemedicine simulations were effective in assisting nursing students recognize their own implicit biases and the economic challenges of individuals living in poverty, as well as the potential influence of social determinants of health. [J Nurs Educ. 2023;62(1):58-61.].