Incorporating a High Fidelity Simulation Experience into the Adult Health Curriculum

Wednesday, July 13, 2011: 3:45 PM

Cynthia Cummings, EdD, RN
Nursing, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL
Margaret A. Holder, PhD, RN
Brooks College of Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL

Learning Objective 1: describe the process of incorporating a simulation lab into the nursing curriculum

Learning Objective 2: discuss the benefits of a simulation experience for both students and faculty

Three years ago, the University of North Florida (UNF) purchased a high fidelity simulation manikin. This presentation will discuss the journey from simple assessment usage to complex scenarios. The trials of working with a high fidelity instrument; incorporation of video recording; scenario development and the use of online resources, including the electronic medical record will be discussed. The process of faculty engagement and training, as well as development of multiple skills needed to utilize this technology will be described. The undertaking has truly been a learning experience for the faculty and the students. The program has allowed the students to develop critical thinking skills in a non-threatening environment and also has provided an opportunity to view their "patient" interactions through video recordings. There have been multiple "lessons learned" from this program, but overall student and faculty response has been overwhelming. Actual student reflections and process recordings will be presented and their recommendations noted. In all, the use of a simulation lab has provided the faculty a way to incorporate multi-dimensional experiences and high risk procedures in an environment that the students could not have otherwise received in an actual clinical setting. In addition, the school has purchased additional specialty manikins and usage of this technique has grown dramatically. As UNF continues to develop and learn from this teaching method, the hope is to share this process with other faculty and interested health professionals so that they too can incorporate this teaching method.