Try Simulation Training to Improve Teamwork, Collaboration, and Patient Safety

Using simulation techniques can provide a safe and effective environment for all levels of staff to learn and interact with others on the healthcare team. More information on TeamSTEPPS can be found at http://teamstepps.ahrq.gov.

Competitive advantage of simulation
One of the major challenges that permeates simulation methodologies is cost. HPS can run tens of thousands of dollars for the initial investment alone. SPs are generally paid hourly not only for their simulation time, but for their rehearsal and training time for each character that they portray.

Serious games can be expensive for an initial startup, but once built, that technological platform can be used to produce different immersive learning scenarios very efficiently and effectively. Medical and surgical simulators, though costly, can be used extensively and with many learners over a long period of time. Even with the cost issue, these methodologies are extremely important to implement if institutions wish to remain competitive.

For example, students who are graduating from nursing and medical school have now been generally exposed to some type of simulation teaching/learning during their educational program. They naturally expect the institutions at which they will work will also have the same technology and employ the same teaching/learning strategies. Having a solid simulation program at an institution where the equipment and infrastructure are in place, along with well-trained and enthusiastic staff development personnel, can only be a plus for recruitment and retention of staff. In addition, simulation has been shown to increase learner retention and engagement. As noted previously, it provides a safe alternative to learning and practicing difficult skills since no real patients are involved.

One way to control costs is to partner with the healthcare professional schools in the local region. Regional simulation centers are growing around the country, and sharing of resources can help control costs for all involved. In addition, it can have the added benefit of bringing together diverse learners who might not otherwise interact. Multi-environment simulations can also be done in these centers, such as an EMS transport to the emergency department, then a transfer to the ICU, and then a transfer to the operating room.

The technology for simulation modalities is continually improving as companies respond to user requests for more and more capability. Institutions need to jump on the bandwagon or will eventually get left behind as this progression occurs.

For more information on the many uses of simulation, go to the Society for Simulation in Healthcare Web site at www.ssih.org.