Nurse Anesthesia Simulation Labs

Since 2004, the Nurse Anesthesia Simulation Labs have been training student registered nurse anesthetists. Our dedicated simulation labs provide a unique, state-of-the-art teaching and learning experience. Integrated throughout the curriculum, our simulation program supports the achievement of program learning objectives from the first year onward. The simulation program enables the practice of high-risk interventions without the risk of patient injury, ultimately enhancing patient safety.

Our advanced anesthesia labs feature full-body pediatric and adult human patient simulators (HPS), which replicate the anatomy, physiology, and treatment responses of real patients. These simulators are utilized in various settings, including operating rooms, intensive care units, and emergency/trauma environments, mirroring the clinical experiences students will encounter. Our students have an invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience with anesthesia machines, ultrasounds, and airway equipment, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

All simulations mimic real-life scenarios, immersing students in a safe environment where they interact with an interdisciplinary team. The ultimate goal is to demonstrate leadership, delegation, teamwork, and closed-loop communication. Faculty, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) from the community, and nurses assume various roles to recreate the unique hospital environment, with the goal of improving patient care.

INACSL Healthcare Simulation Standards of Best Practice

All simulations are designed in accordance with the International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning (INACSL) Healthcare Simulation Standards of Best Practice. Our structured simulation design ensures consistency as each student progresses through pre-briefing, the simulation itself, and video-assisted debriefing. High-fidelity simulations may include malignant hyperthermia, acute hemorrhage, difficult airway management, intubation for the COVID-19 patient, unstable cardiac rhythms, and much more. Students are also exposed to high-fidelity simulations across the lifespan, including pediatric and obstetric emergencies.

Virtual Reality

Virtual reality (VR) is now integrated into the curriculum, offering realistic simulations that range from anesthesia machine checkouts to the management of rare intraoperative emergencies. This technology allows students to practice a variety of simulations at their own pace and in the comfort of their homes, thereby building the confidence, critical thinking, and skills necessary for success prior to entering clinical. Check out this video to learn more about the use of VR.

Simulation Embedded in the Curriculum

Prior to participating in simulations, students attend didactic lectures to establish a foundation of key concepts. The simulation program utilizes didactic knowledge and allows students to apply concepts to patient care through multiple workshops, open labs, and high-fidelity simulations. All simulations are integrated into the curriculum to facilitate student success. A detailed breakdown is provided below:

First year:

  • Basic airway management
  • Positioning
  • Preoperative assessment
  • Anesthesia machine demonstration
  • Anesthesia machine and cart set-up
  • Induction of general anesthesia
  • Neuraxial anesthesia
  • Peripheral nerve blocks
  • Virtual reality simulations
  • Open lab
  • First year students complete an average of 90 hours of lab/simulation time prior to entering clinical practice

Second year:

  • Difficult airway management
  • Arterial and central lines
  • High-fidelity simulations
  • Virtual reality simulations
  • Open lab

Third year:

  • High-fidelity simulations
    • Anesthesia crisis resource management
  • Open lab