The IWK Simulation Program helps by providing simulation-based learning specific to the neonatal, pediatric, obstetrical, and adult surgery patient population. The resources include anatomical models, task trainers, high technical fidelity simulators, and equipment related to specific clinical procedures. The program supports over 2,500 hours of simulation-based learning for more than 3,000 learners annually.
How we help
In healthcare, there are no “do-overs”. Simulation is the imitation of real-time events, processes, or procedures—it creates an environment for clinical learning without risk to patients. Health professionals and learners are able to practice new skills and apply knowledge and behaviours in a controlled setting with the ability to repeat procedures and processes to achieve mastery learning. Scenarios are followed by debriefing to allow for discussion, problem solving, and synthesis of information. Depending on objectives, simulation may incorporate computerized mannequins, task trainers, role playing, and standardized patients or actors.
What to expect
The Simulation Learning Centre provides dedicated, secure space for learners, health professionals, and teams to learn and practice in a simulated clinical or skills lab setting. The Centre can be configured for number of simulation-based learning events:
- Scenario based simulation
- Task training
- Procedural skills
- New equipment education
- Resuscitation programs
- Clinical education days
- Emergency processes/procedures
We support simulation-based learning for over 40 programs within IWK Health and with partner organizations, including:
- Medicine and health professionals
- Interprofessional teams and clinical care areas
- Resuscitation programs
- Faculty development
- Research
- Pre- and post-licensure medicine
- Health professions learners
People and teams at the IWK who take advantage of simulation-based learning include:
- Physicians, health professions staff, and support services
- Interprofessional emergency teams, such as the code blue response teams
- Resuscitation programs such as the Neonatal Resuscitation Program, pediatric Life Support Program and the Advanced Cardiac Life Support Program
- Undergraduate learner groups including students from Medicine, Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Paramedicine and other health professions.
- Post graduate learners including Nurse Practitioner students and Residents from Pediatrics, Obstetrics, Anaesthesia, and Emergency Medicine