Future clinicians learn to work as one in Simulation Pilot

The Goldfields University Department of Rural Health (GUDRH) recently hosted a three-day Simulation event designed to give students additional real-world experience during their clinical placement in the Goldfields. 

Held at Curtin Kalgoorlie’s Rural Health Campus, the event began with a two-day National Health Education and Training in Simulation (NHETS) workshop, drawing participation from staff across WACHS and both the Curtin Kalgoorlie and Bentley campuses.  

On the third day, participants moved into the Rural Health Campus’ purpose-built Simulation Room for a full interprofessional simulation, involving 14 faculty members, 2 WACHS staff and 26 students from Medicine, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Speech Pathology, and Social Work.  

Students participated in interprofessional teams, learning to work alongside one another, drawing on existing experience and shared resources, just as they would on the job. Throughout the day they worked through 7 scenarios spanning 4 hospital emergency department settings and 3 outpatient situations. The simulation event highlighted the importance of interprofessional collaborative practice in rural healthcare, especially in relation to ensuring the best health outcomes for clients. 

Modelled on a working hospital ward and equipped with all the essentials of a real clinical environment, the Sim Room is a valuable tool for preparing students to deliver confident, competent care.