Manikin-Based Simulations

Residents practice surgery on mannequins

Manikin-based simulations use high fidelity simulators, manikins that breathe, with breath sounds, heart tones, and palpable pulses. In addition, the manikin has a monitor that can display EKG, pulse oximeter, blood pressure, arterial wave forms, pulmonary artery wave forms, anesthetic gases, etc. Procedures can be performed on the simulators such as bag-mask ventilation, intubation, defibrillation, chest tube placement, cricothyrotomy and others.

Using manikins in clinical simulations allows future and current physicians to ‘practice on plastic’ first. The reality of manikin-based simulations allows for virtual feedback using computers that regulate the manikin's compressors, mimicking pulses and chest raising.These life-like manikins simulate heart tones and other vital cues that when connected to monitors, provides real-time information to students. By practicing true clinical skills in a safe and regulated environment, future physicians learn permanent and excellent evaluation and treatment techniques.

Some of the Manikin-based simulation training courses offered at the Sim Center:

Course title:Difficult Airway Management
Educational objective:  The interdisciplinary team will effectively manage various airway emergencies.  Participants will use algorithms to assist in airway management decision making, and utilize crisis resource management techniques to function effectively as a team.

Course title:  SPRING Nurse Graduate Internship
Educational objective:  Participants will manage the first 5 minutes of a code, including quality chest compressions, effective bag-mask ventilation, defibrillation.  Focus will be on prioritizing patient care, mobilizing the team, and CRM principles to include:  leadership, followship, situational awareness, and utilization of resources.

Course title:  OB/NICU Team Training
Educational objective:  The Interdisciplinary team will manage low volume, high-risk clinical events, using effective teamwork behaviors.