Abstract
Objective The purpose of this study was to elicit feedback from simulation technicians prior to developing the first simulation technician-specific simulation laboratory in Akron, OH.BackgroundSimulation technicians serve a vital role in simulation centers within hospitals/health centers around the world. The first simulation technician degree program in the US has been approved in Akron, OH. To satisfy the requirements of this program and to meet the needs of this special audience of learners, a customized simulation lab is essential. MethodA web-based survey was circulated to simulation technicians prior to completion of the lab for the new program. The survey consisted of questions aimed at identifying structural and functional design elements of a novel simulation center for the training of simulation technicians. Quantitative methods were utilized to analyze data.ResultsOver 90% of technicians (n=65) think that a lab designed explicitly for the training of technicians is novel and beneficial. Approximately 75% of respondents think that the space provided appropriate audiovisual (AV) infrastructure and space to evaluate the ability of technicians to be independent. The respondents think that the lab needed more storage space, visualization space for a large number of students, and more space in the technical/repair area.Conclusions A space designed for the training of simulation technicians was considered to be beneficial. This laboratory requires distinct space for technical repair, adequate bench space for the maintenance and repair of simulators, an appropriate AV infrastructure, and space to evaluate the ability of technicians to be independent.
Highlights
Simulation technicians serve a vital role in simulation centers within hospitals/health centers around the world
A space designed for the training of simulation technicians was considered to be beneficial
Medical simulation centers are commonly found in medical schools and teaching hospitals throughout the United States [1]
Summary
Medical simulation centers are commonly found in medical schools and teaching hospitals throughout the United States [1]. Simulation technicians serve a vital role within these facilities [2]. Simulation technicians must have a broad knowledge base in pathophysiology, pharmacology, simulation scenario design, simulator setup/maintenance, and administrative training [3]. The simulation technician role is still loosely defined. A recent survey from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center showed that simulation technicians identified five core tasks as their primary roles: equipment setup and breakdown, programming scenarios into software, operation of software during simulations, audiovisual (AV) support, and on-site simulation maintenance [4]. The same survey noted that simulation technicians thought they lacked formal training and they bridged the self-perceived educational gap by self-directed learning [4]. Simulation technicians serve a vital role in simulation centers within hospitals/health centers around the world. To satisfy the requirements of this program and to meet the needs of this special audience of learners, a customized simulation lab is essential
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