Thank you for your interest in Belmont University’s Standardized Patient/Simulated Participant Program. The Center for Interprofessional Engagement and Simulation provides learning opportunities for learners across Belmont’s campus, including the schools of exercise science, medicine, mental health, nursing, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy, and social work, as well as a number of external partners. The use of SPs is a vital part of many of these educational experiences.
A standardized patient/simulated participant (SP) is a person carefully recruited and trained to portray the roles of patients, family members, medical professionals, and others, allowing learners to practice physical examinations, history-taking, communication, and other clinical and interpersonal skills in a safe and structured learning environment. An interaction between a learner and an SP may include any of the following:
- presenting case history in response to questioning by the learner
undergoing a limited physical examination at the learner's direction
- wearing simulation devices that provide artificial symptoms and conditions
- the use of moulage or special effects makeup
- portraying potentially triggering emotional and mental states in a safe environment
- working alongside a manikin as a family member
SPs will also occasionally be asked to provide students with feedback, assisting students in developing their communication and clinical skills and their ability to work through difficult emotional situations in a safe environment.
Once you complete this interest form, you may receive an email asking you to come in for an official interview. Group interviews for prospective SPs are scheduled on an as-needed basis. Due to the amount of interest in our program, we are unable to respond individually to every submission or employ all of the talented individuals who contact us.
SPs work on a project-by-project basis and may work anywhere from a few times a month to a few times a year. Most SP work is scheduled Monday through Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Evening or weekend opportunities may occasionally occur, but they are rare.
There is no guarantee of work beyond what is agreed to on a single-project basis.
SPs are hired by the university as part-time casual employees.
SPs will be paid bi-weekly at a rate of $25/hour.
A background check must be completed before working. Belmont students are not required to complete a background check.
A photo/video release must be signed before working, as a majority of encounters are filmed for both educational and safety purposes.
An Assumption of Risk and Release must be signed for insurance purposes.
Please fill out and sign the form below, indicating that you have read and understand ALL of the above information.
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