Newswise — The School of Nursing at Wichita State University recently acquired a new family of state-of-the-art mannequins that can realistically simulate a variety of symptoms and scenarios, including childbirth, seizures, blood pressure problems and bleeding.

The major benefit of simulation is that it provides an interactive experience where students have the opportunity to learn and practice in a realistic and safe environment. Studies show that when used in conjunction with the classroom and clinicals, simulation promotes better preparation of new nurses and increased patient safety.

"The mannequins are an excellent tool for our students," says Abbey Elliott, simulation coordinator for the School of Nursing who runs the computerized simulations. "Since faculty members supervise the simulations, students can safely make mistakes and receive immediate feedback to learn from those mistakes."

As simulation becomes increasingly more integrated in the classroom, the realistic mannequins are an important addition to the college. The mannequins were made possible through student fees and are part of the School of Nursing's mission to improve the health of the community through innovation and excellence in education.

Authentic simulations help student learning experience

The family of mannequins includes an adult female named Victoria, an infant female named Tory, and Hal, a male made in child and adult versions. They are of various ages and skin tones to reflect the diversity of real patients.

Victoria can simulate an authentic birth, complete with realistic components such as placenta and umbilical cord. She can also experience various complications such as postpartum hemorrhage and shoulder dysplasia. She comes with a birthing bed, monitors and devices for students to learn how to operate equipment, read information and follow clinical procedures.

Tory can simulate crying and other signs of distress, giving students the opportunity to care for a newborn immediately following birth.

Fourth-semester nursing student Rebecca Angell says the mannequins are a very effective way for students to practice the skills needed to perform a delivery.

"The mannequins are helpful because they prepare us as much as possible before experiencing the real thing," she says. "Being able to practice in a risk-free environment really increases my confidence."

A photograph is available at http://www.wichita.edu/thisis/wsunews/newsrelease/highres/?pid=7013# # # # #Contact: Victoria Mosack, department chair, school of nursing, 978-5756 or [email protected].