Nursing schools both in the U.S. and internationally are realizing the benefits of simulation activities for our students. Navigating the growing research results, educational development and clinical evidence related to simulation can be a challenge to faculty. Several online resources provide a reputable summary of current simulation information.
NLN has developed the Simulation Innovation Resource Center (SIRC), a simulation resource readily accessible for NLN members. The SIRC "is an online e-learning site where nursing faculty can learn how to develop and integrate simulation into their curriculum, and engage in dialogue with experts and peers" (1). The SIRC allows schools and other agencies to share their simulation developments by providing a link to a different simulation center each day. Filling out a simple questionnaire regarding your simulation center allows you to share your resources. The SIRC also features online courses developed by a variety of simulation experts that include topics such as "Designing a Simulation Center," "Guidelines for Simulation Research," or even "Programming a High Fidelity Simulator." SIRC also features links to pertinent events related to simulation.
The International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning (INACSL) is another useful resource. The mission of this organization is to "...promote and provide the development and advancement of clinical simulation and learning resource centers' (2). Membership in INACSL allows access to the Journal of Simulation in Nursing," the INACSL email list serve, and provides tips concerning the management of Simulation Centers and Learning Resource Centers. The site also provides links to Simulation Centers at various universities.
Additionally, the manufacturers of Simulation equipment provide valuable resources. Laerdal (makers of Resusci Anne(R), SimMan(R) and SimBaby) provides both training and educational information on their website (http://www.laerdal.com/default.asp). Medical Education Technologies (METI), makers of the high end human patient simulator iStan(R), supports the Human Patient Simulation Network (HPSN). The HPSN website (http://www.meti.com/hpsn_main.htm) provides videos, links to workshops and presentations, an online HPSN community forum, archives of HPSN Newsletters and even a Blog. All of these resources may prove helpful to faculty as we use more and more simulation strategies in nursing education.
References