Future of immersive learning: MGH celebrates grand opening of The Rands Family Simulation Centre

On September 22, Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) hosted a grand opening event for The Rands Family Simulation Centre.

This space provides patient-care simulation, technical skills training and on-site team simulations in a safe, reproducible and supportive environment.

It is located on the fourth floor of the Ken and Marilyn Thomson Patient Care Centre (Thomson Centre) and features many notable technologies and equipment items, as well as a Simulation Lab.

Staff, physicians, learners and donors had the opportunity to hear remarks and participate in simulation-based exercises.

“This space will enable learners to practice the skills needed during real-life scenarios,” says Melanie Kohn, President and CEO at MGH.

“Training through simulation is an impactful way to provide valuable opportunities to learn and practice, while also promoting teamwork, leadership, quality improvement, clinical judgement and communication.”

Space made possible through generous donation

This space is made possible by the generous support of the Rands family.

Scott Rands is a long-time volunteer with the MGH Foundation and is committed to the community MGH serves.

In recognition of their support and efforts, the Simulation Centre is named in honour of the Rands family.

“Hearing of the impact this space would have on staff and learners is remarkable,” Scott says.

"I think the value of being able to practice critical skills and being able to make mistakes in a safe, controlled environment is a great step towards learning and delivering high-quality patient care."

Enabling hands-on learning for real-life scenarios

The Simulation Lab includes a single simulation room with two patient bays equipped with a mock medical gases headwall and an articulating boom arm. A separate control room is available for instruction and debriefing.

“We were located in the basement before and did not have a dedicated space for simulation,” says Cheryl Nelson, Manager of Clinical Simulation and Immersive Learning at MGH.

This larger space in the Thomson Centre will enable learners to practice the skills needed during real-life scenarios.

“Having a space solely dedicated to this type of learning where staff feel safe to learn will allow them to feel more comfortable and competent in delivering high-quality patient care,” Cheryl says.

In addition to enhancing clinical skills among interprofessional teams in this environment, individuals are able to engage in hands-on programs and skills labs, including Basic Life Support, Resuscitation Programs and Advanced Cardiac Life Support.

“In our training, we will ensure greater use of other modalities to bring education to all clinicians so that they aren’t just reading textbooks – we’re focused on making everything hands-on,” Cheryl says.