Technology
The STRATUS Center utilizes state-of-the-art; computer controlled patient simulation systems, computer-based simulation and individualized task trainers. The simulation center boasts high-fidelity human patient simulation suites, a fully equipped operating room, a laparoscopic/endoscopic/bronchoscopic virtual reality arcade, a PC-based microsimulation laboratory and a task-oriented advanced skill lab. Advanced AV equipment allows digital, audio and video recording of simulation cases for debriefing. Our sophisticated classrooms and conference areas provide flexible locations to train and practice with great flexibility.
Realism without the risk
The STRATUS Center was designed to ensure that healthcare providers possess the necessary expertise each time a challenging medical situation is encountered. Our simulators can be programmed to replicate a multitude of scenarios – from the difficult airway, to the management of complicated multi-system failure; situations that providers just don't see every day. STRATUS enables providers to practice the necessary skills, behaviors, and attitudes, so they can respond with confidence, as if presented with these situations daily. Our simulators can also be programmed to present common clinical presentations; providing a predictable context in which to teach in an engaging manner.
By incorporating real-time, interactive simulation technology, STRATUS enables the healthcare professional to experience realistic patient scenarios, where the patient actually responds to actions taken or omitted. This instant cause and effect creates a powerful learning environment (link to value of simulation) promoting the development of critical assessment skills and building clinical confidence.
Bringing clinical situations to life
- The patient: A computer controlled, adult, pediatric, infant, or neonatal mannequin that breathes, has a pulse and blood pressure, heart sounds, breath sounds and bowel sounds. Participants interact with the patient by carrying on a two-way conversation and evaluating physical findings on the mannequin.
- Lifelike interaction. Participants will interact with our simulated patients by asking questions, evaluating physical findings, ordering tests, interpreting results, developing differential diagnoses, and performing procedures.
- A variety of procedures. Given the information obtained, participants will perform procedures including intravenous cannulation, phlebotomy, medication administration, airway procedures, thoracostomies, bronchoscopies, urethral catheterization and a multitude of other procedures.
- Clinical monitoring. Achieved by continuous evaluation of the simulator's computer generated pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate, EKG, pulse oximetry, arterial blood pressure waveform, and capnography waveform.
- Responsive. The simulator responds to participant interactions and interventions including medication administration. Tactile and auditory changes are reproduced on the mannequin and monitoring equipment. The treatment provided may cause the simulated patient to improve, get worse, live or die.
- Informative feedback. Each choice made by the instructor or participant is recorded digitally and can be replayed on a monitor. Using the recording and replay capabilities of the Center, the session can be debriefed at its conclusion. Ignored symptoms, incorrect diagnoses and inappropriate treatments can be identified after the fact; a valuable teaching tool
- Task training. STRATUS also provides a variety of task trainers for open and laparoscopic surgical procedures, obstetrical management, diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound, upper and lower endoscopy, bronchoscopy, thoracentesis, paracentesis, lumbar punctures, among many others.
