Incorporating a Psychiatric Telehealth Simulation in a Family Nurse Practitioner Curriculum

The prevalence of mental health disorders in primary care is high and challenges related to the COVID pandemic warrant further training of the family nurse practitioner. A telehealth simulation learning experience that included common primary care diagnoses in mental health—general anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder—was incorporated into a non-clinical behavioral health course. Formative evaluation provided by licensed nurse practitioners confirmed the need for improving interviewing techniques, engaging clients, and promoting safety among this population. Students’ confidence during the encounter was measured using the Simulation Effectiveness Tool. Findings suggest a simulation learning experience is an effective resource for training nurse practitioner students to treat mental health disorders.