Northern Marianas College (NMC) nursing instructors recently engaged in professional development by participating in a healthcare simulation lab training conducted by Erica Davis, Associate Director of the Hawaii/Pacific Basin Area Health Education Center (AHEC).
During the training, nursing instructors learned to operate simulation equipment, set up learning environments, utilize appropriate briefing techniques, employ effective debriefing strategies for post-simulation discussions, and address learning gaps while providing constructive feedback.
The NMC nursing instructors will utilize the college's health simulation lab, inaugurated in November 2023.
NMC Nursing Department Chair Rosa Aldan said she is very grateful for the training and is excited to teach the next generation of healthcare professionals for the CNMI using the simulation lab.
“I am very grateful for the training provided by Erica Davis and her team,” Aldan said. “With this enhanced expertise, I am excited to equip the next generation of healthcare professionals for the CNMI using our simulation lab. This training has empowered us to create immersive learning experiences that will undoubtedly shape the future of healthcare in our community.”
The college's simulation lab replicates a hospital room, allowing students to practice realistic medical scenarios on mid to high-fidelity mannequins. Some mannequins simulate pulses, while others mimic various injuries. Additionally, there are mannequins stationed for anatomy and intubation practice. Medical equipment within the center can display blood oxygen levels, blood pressure, and other vital signs.
"Simulation training is a fundamental aspect of healthcare education, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios," Davis said. "By empowering NMC instructors with enhanced simulation facilitation skills, we can ensure that students receive the most impactful and immersive educational experiences possible."
For further information about the AHEC simulation lab, contact NMC's Area Health Education Center (AHEC) at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..