Trends in Simulation: Using Technology to Enhance Medical Care

For example, the ability for technology to create this realism gives surgeons the chance to practice and perfect their technical skills for a new surgical procedure on a task trainer before they perform it for the first time on a patient.

In addition to the realism offered by the manikins, simulationists often use their Hollywood creativity to bring technology to life with moulage, whether this is with a bone sticking out of the leg or a gaping wound on the forehead. But in recent years, 3D printing has taken simulation to the next level. This technology has allowed healthcare professionals around the country to not only practice unique and challenging procedures, but to clearly explain these procedures to patients and families. The ability to take a patient’s specific anatomy and 3D print it to review with them prior to the procedure has revolutionized how we think about healthcare. Although we are just beginning to explore 3D printing at Children’s Minnesota simulation program, we have started to innovatively use simulation strategies to educate our families. We are giving our families the opportunity to benefit from simulation technology, just as our healthcare professionals have. We can now provide time for caretakers of medically complex children to practice skills on manikins or task trainers prior to performing them on their own children. This allows Children’s to lighten the emotional burden of these parents as they transition from being in the hospital to being discharged home.

Although simulation technology has rapidly advanced in recent years, it is important to remember the core of simulation is not the fancy gadgets, but rather it is a strategy to enhance quality and patient safety in healthcare. The key is the ability to use self-reflective debriefing practices to promote learning and growth. It is the opportunity to learn and fail without ever harming a patient,this is the true return on investment. The ultimate goal, whether it’s through simulating a process or practicing a procedure, is to improve patient outcomes and continue to provide the best care possible to all pediatric patient that come through Children’s Minnesota.

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