Clinical Simulation Center opens at Methodist Hospital

Center uses actors and an interactive mannequin to advance medical education

ST. LOUIS PARK, Minn. – Park Nicollet has opened a new Clinical Simulation Center at Methodist Hospital. The center will provide a space for teams and the community to practice real-life scenarios using a mannequin or human actors.

Simulation plays an important role in medical education. It is an effective way to develop, update and refresh skills without putting patient’s in harm’s way. Simulations primarily focus on complex cases not commonly seen. They also challenge care teams to have difficult conversations and to make decisions critical to patient safety.

The new Clinical Simulation Center features two “patient” rooms and an interactive mannequin that is able to breathe, sweat, cry, have a pulse – even replicate a seizure. The center will be used as a part of the process to train new nurses and will also provide training opportunities for the community.

“This new center is a great representation of what we stand for: putting patients first and supporting care teams. We’re proud to offer this resource so anyone can sharpen their skills using the most advanced training technology,” said Roxanna Gapstur, president of Methodist Hospital.

Prior to the new Simulation Center, Park Nicollet partnered with HealthPartners to provide mobile simulations. In 2015 alone, more than 800 Park Nicollet employees took part in mobile simulations through the HealthPartners Clinical Simulation and Learning Center. Park Nicollet and HealthPartners will continue to partner on unique simulation opportunities.