It’s National Nursing Week in Canada. To mark the occasion, the University of Lethbridge is showcasing the high-tech equipment its nursing students learn with. The university’s simulation health centre allows students to learn on mannequins that react like patients. The high-fidelity mannequin is especially realistic. It can simulate breathing, has a heartbeat, pupils that respond to light and can even sweat or bleed. The high-fidelity mannequin has been a significant addition for U of L nursing students. They’re able to practise real-world scenarios without any risk. “I think it’s very beneficial, and our students often say how beneficial sim is for their learning,” said Lisa Johnson, U of L simulation health centre co-ordinator. “It gives them the opportunity to practise in a safe environment. If errors occur or mistakes happen, it doesn’t hurt our patient.” Third- and fourth-year students get to practise two different scenarios on the mannequin. These include a patient with diabetes and one with heart failure.
