Types of Simulation
Simulation is a training and feedback method in which learners practice tasks and processes in lifelike circumstances using models or virtual reality, with feedback from observers, peers, actor-patients, and video cameras to assist improvement in skills.
There are five different types of models that are used within the different simulation programs and centers here at OHSU.
Task Trainer Simulation
Task trainer simulation allows the student to practice basic skills on task trainers to ensure patient safety and comfort. At OHSU, physicians and students attain individual improvement from the ability to practice a variety of skills, such as suturing, dissection, and pattern cutting, and allows physicians in training to improve their visual, tactile and coordination skills. These training procedures range from the basics, such as drawing blood to more sophisticated procedures, such as endovascular surgery and trauma care.
This type of training improves critical thinking, decision making, and clinical techniques all without risk to a real patient.
Manikin-based Simulation
Manikin-based simulation includes low, mid and high fidelity simulation manikins used in the training of healthcare providers. The level of fidelity refers to the technological abilities of the equipment, from a static manikin used for skills training all the way to a manikin that communicates, has dynamic vital signs, blinks, cries and whose chest rises and falls. There are multiple options depending on the learning objectives and goals of a given course to train using manikin-based simulation.
Standardized Patient Simulation
Standardized patient simulations facilitate interactive teaching through the innovative combination of technology and patient actors. The patient actors are called Standardized Patients, and they are used extensively by OHSU schools to teach clinical skills to medical, nursing, and PA students. We are proud to employ a large number of Standardized Patients with a depth of experience in the acting and medical model worlds. If you are interested in working as a Standardized Patient, please fill out the SP Registration form.
Learn about our Standardized Patient program and what it's like to be a Standardized Patient.
Virtual Reality Simulation
The use of virtual simulators at OHSU gives students, faculty, and medical providers leading edge tools to investigate and adapts to the advancement in medical training. By using unique state-of-the-art virtual devices, it enables medical providers with high fidelity training procedural simulation enhanced with true-to-life tactile sensations.
Tissue-based Simulation
As learners advance in their training, they are exposed to a graduated level of difficulty in their simulation curriculum. Moving from dry-lab task trainers to wet-lab experiences ensures learners the opportunity to practice procedural skills outside of the clinical environment. This not only benefits the learners but also ensures patient safety and quality clinical care.