What Dental Hygienists Learned through Training with Simulated Patient and How They Applied it in Practice?

Abstract

Introduction: This study aims at investigating what dental hygienists learned through training with a simulated patient and how they applied their learning in practice. Method: Open-ended questionnaire surveys on their perceptions and experiences of health communication were undertaken by 21 dental hygienists before and after communication trainings. Result: Before the training, they felt it difficult to cope with patients’ negative responses to their communication. However, after the training, they deeply considered how they should be as health professional through reflection on their own communication style. In their practice, they tried to communicate while considering the patient’s situation. Discussion: Participants’ critical reflection, which was encouraged in this training, resulted in application of their learning to clinical practice.