Simulation Lab opening
Award winning simulation lab design set to become reality
The Southern Innovation Challenge is an annual competition that encourages Southern DHB staff to bring their ideas to life.
And that is exactly what has happened for Dunedin Public Hospital Registrar, Sam Shaw.
Working with the Otago Simulation Interest Group, Sam entered with a goal to develop the first clinical simulation lab embedded inside the hospital.
After winning last year’s Patient Priority Award, Sam’s winning concept has now become a reality.
On Friday 30th August the ED seminar room on Dunedin Hospital’s ground floor will be officially opened as a multifunction venue with a fit-for-purpose simulation training lab.
“It’s great to have this located in the middle of the hospital. It’s very convenient for regular staff training.” Sam said.
The remodel of the room involved a team from the Southern DHB’s Building and Property services. The meeting room also now has a single bed space that resembles a true-to-life clinical environment.
“Reality is baked into it. Everything is in the right place. We have oxygen outlets, suction, medication spaces, a place to hang fluids and drugs, and a patient monitor. It replicates a clinical ward or an emergency department resuscitation bay.”
“The more you can improve the authenticity of the simulation, the easier staff can buy into the clinical scenario, and the better they translate learning points into clinical practice.”
Sam’s idea is not only a winner for himself, but also for the future of health in the hospital. Simulation training is a proven educational tool for advancing skills and improving patient outcomes, says Otago Clinical Skill Laboratories Co-Director, Dr Ohad Dar.
“Simulation based training should be just part of our normal clinical practice. It prepares front line staff and students to train for time-critical clinical events. It’s also good for developing effective communication skills, which can enhance a team’s performance. I think an additional by-product of simulation is the reinforcement of the hospital’s culture of respect and developing collaboration between people.”
Sam is looking forward to the Simulation Lab getting up and running, which is already being lined up for heavy use.
“There’s a growing number of facilitators in the hospital who are trained in simulation delivery. That includes physiotherapists, nurses, doctors, and multidisciplinary groups. It’s pushing forward momentum for simulation training in the hospital, which is a growing trend.”