Impact of structured sexual health training incorporating standardised patients on health professions students' sexual health communication competence: A single-blind randomised controlled trial in Tanzania.
Gift G Lukumay, Deodatus Kakoko, B R Simon Rosser et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This single-blind, parallel-group randomised controlled trial evaluated structured sexual health training incorporating standardised patients (SPs) among undergraduate medical and nursing students at a university in Tanzania. The programme combined teaching, discussion, role-play and SP practice; communication competence was SP-rated at baseline and six months. Competence improved in both groups, with greater gains after training. Mixed ANOVA found a significant time-by-group interaction (p = .002), indicating different changes between groups. Exploratory analyses showed higher intervention-group scores across most competencies, especially rapport, empathy and information-gathering, but not clear and understandable language.
Key findings
- At six months, competence improved in both groups, with greater gains in the structured training group.
- The time-by-group interaction was significant (p = .002); the overall time effect was also significant (p < .001).
- Exploratory analyses found higher intervention-group scores for most competencies, particularly rapport, empathy and information-gathering.
- No significant group difference was observed for use of clear and understandable language.
Why it matters
Sensitive sexual health consultations require communication that supports patient engagement and effective information-gathering. This trial suggests that structured teaching with SP-based practice can improve students’ performance in simulated consultations, including rapport and empathy. SP assessment also offers a way to evaluate communication skills in educational settings, although the reported outcomes concern students and simulated encounters rather than clinical practice.
What to keep in mind
Competence was assessed by SPs in simulated consultations, so the findings do not establish effects on communication or outcomes in routine clinical care.