MMC is extremely
fortunate to acquire a Human Patient Simulator (HPS). This is a mannequin similar in
size to the mannequin used for BLS and ACLS training. This mannequin however is very
sophisticated. It is
connected to a computer which contains programs for different
scenarios such as:
-
AAA clamping and
unclamping
-
routine anesthesia
inductions
-
laryngospasm on
emergence
-
bradycardia and
hypotension
-
difficult airway
management
-
OB
amniotic fluid embolus
-
malignant
hyperthermia
-
anaphylaxis
-
ACLS alogorithms
There are many other
scenarios other than the above list.
It is also possible to create scenarios. The HPS also recognizes 70
different medications. All
of the commonly used anesthetic induction agents, opioids,
neuromuscular blockers, hypnotics, and commonly used antiarrhythmic
agents are included. The
medications are labeled with a bar code recognized by a bar code
reader. The usual effect of the drug in different physiological states
has been determined by pharmacologists and physiologists. So, when the student gives a
drug the response is very real.
The HPS is contained
to standard monitors used in the operating room. This simulation lab will give
students an opportunity to experience some events which may not occur
in during their clinical phase. Since
these are computer programs, the program can be paused to assess
student assessment or intervention based on the available data. Currently because of the cost
very few nurse anesthesia programs have a simulator of this
sophistication. It is
more common in anesthesiology residency programs.
I suspect it will take perhaps three years to
fully complete the simulation laboratory due to the cost of the needed
equipment. MMC was very
fortunate to receive a sizable grant from the Avera McKennan
Foundation but that grant covers only about a fourth of the costs to
develop this laboratory. Any
contribution you might make to the College would be greatly
appreciated. With your
help the potential of this lab can be reached within the next three
years. If there are any
questions about this HPS lab or how your contribution might be used
please call me at 322-8090 (local) or (877) 727-8672 (toll-free). Thank you.