VA Kicks Off Simulation Training In Providence

Providence VA Medical Center has opened a simulation center, powered by technology from Exton, Pa.-based Education Management Solutions, which will enable instructors to practice and train for invasive procedures, emergency care and more, tracking progress along the way.

VA officials say the medical center plans to use this technology to videotape simulations for debriefing, research and staff education, according to Judy Murphy, RN, a member of the VA Nursing Academy Faculty at Providence VA Medical Center.

The simulation center consists of two rooms – one equipped with two mannequins, and the other set up as a control/debriefing room. Murphy, who says she's interested in the use of “active learning strategies using principles of adult learning and experiential learning theory” to guide her practice, says she plans to expand the facility center once she's "able to demonstrate active use of the center and enhanced outcomes."