New simulation lab space that allows George Washington University School of Nursing students to practice procedures and new skills will make future nurses better equipped to meet the health care needs of patients.
Students, faculty and staff from GW Nursing gathered on Wednesday to celebrate the opening of the new simulation lab space and Student Success Center at Innovation Hall on the Virginia Science and Technology Campus. The new facilities put GW Nursing at the cutting edge of educational technology for health professionals.
With the opening of the simulation lab, the university has nearly doubled the amount of space where GW Nursing students can try new methods and learn from their mistakes in a safe and controlled environment. GW President Thomas LeBlanc said the university is committed to building a physical infrastructure that is conducive to fostering student learning and community.
Simulation offers the ability to create real-life scenarios through which students develop, refine and apply knowledge and skills without the risk of harming patients. This kind of training is an important strategy for students in a clinical setting, Dr. LeBlanc said. If students aren’t simulating—they’re poking you.
“Trust me, you’d much prefer a simulation,” he said.