Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN is consistently focused on enhancing the education and skills of its staff members. In 2022, the nursing simulation lab at St. Mary’s was established, equipped with four medical mannequins that function like real humans. The lab aims to boost skills and confidence among nurses by offering a variety of scenarios for practice. Nursing Education Coordinator Paul Branstad explained that the mannequins can simulate rare diseases to provide a realistic learning experience.
Since its inception, the simulation lab has provided a safe environment for more than 13,000 nurses to practice and learn from their mistakes. Nurses like Zachary Bernatz, who works in the Intensive Care Unit at Mayo Clinic, have found the lab instrumental in their professional development. Bernatz mentioned that practicing different emergency scenarios in the lab has improved his confidence in handling similar situations with real patients.
The simulation lab has helped nurses keep their skills sharp and respond effectively to critical situations. Nursing Education Specialist Michelle Coy shared a powerful story where a group of nurses practiced a cardiac emergency scenario and successfully saved the life of a real patient the very next day in a similar situation. Mayo Clinic believes that the simulation lab plays a crucial role in enhancing patient care by providing nurses with hands-on training and real-time feedback.
The feedback and experience gained in the simulation lab are invaluable for nurses throughout their careers. The continuous practice and exposure to various scenarios prepare them to handle challenging situations with confidence. Mayo Clinic recognizes the impact of simulation training on patient outcomes and remains committed to providing a state-of-the-art learning environment for its staff.