In recognition of Healthcare Simulation Week 2023, organized by the Society for Simulation in Healthcare, the Simulation Department at the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM) hosted a “Simulation Showcase” on campus to highlight the role of simulation in medical education.

From high-fidelity simulation manikins to standardized patients and even task trainers — lifelike models of human anatomy designed to help learners practice a specific skill — each and every simulation experience enhances the medical education of ICOM’s student doctors. The purpose of the Simulation Showcase was to introduce participants to ongoing simulation activities and familiarize employees with existing simulation resources at ICOM.

“As a part of Healthcare Simulation Week, we wanted to demonstrate the power of experiential learning and how the SIM Department at ICOM facilitates these events,” said Dr. Jessica Ziebarth, Chair of Specialty Medicine at ICOM. “Our hope was to promote understanding of simulation education, to showcase the work of the SIM Department, and to improve interdepartmental collaboration.”

Participants in the Simulation Showcase experienced an interactive session with standardized patients, viewed a manikin simulation, and received an up-close look at the task trainers and fleet of high-fidelity simulation manikins housed on campus, including ICOM’s newest additions — two pediatric patient simulators.

For students, simulation education serves as a bridge between classroom learning and real-life clinical experience. Ultimately, the goal of simulation is to improve patient care and patient outcomes. ICOM embraces simulation as a valuable educational tool. On average, ICOM’s first- and second-year students will be exposed to 100 hours of simulation during the pre-clinical years of their education.

“Medical simulation is a powerful educational tool that creates a safe environment for students to practice and refine their clinical and communication skills, enhance medical knowledge, and develop critical thinking abilities,” said Casi Wilson, Director of Simulation at ICOM. “Through the development of realistic clinical scenarios coupled with immediate feedback and coaching from faculty, students are able to bridge the gap between the classroom and real patient contact by learning to assess patient conditions, prioritize actions, and make sound clinical judgements.”

To learn more about simulation at ICOM, click here.