Nursing Education
Simulation education is key to advancing the nursing profession.
This year promises to be one of significant advancement for the nursing profession. The World Health Organization has designated 2020 as the “Year of the Nurse and Midwife” in honor of what would be Florence Nightingale’s 200th birthday. At the University of Florida College of Nursing, we are taking the opportunity to reflect on our growth and examine new paths for strengthening programs of teaching, research and patient care.
On the Jacksonville campus, simulation use has increased and improved the learning experience for students pursuing an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Jane Gannon, D.N.P., C.N.M., C.N.L., assistant dean of simulation based learning, is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator, or CHSE, and has enhanced the opportunity for simulation and interprofessional education. She has collaborated with faculty members from the UF College of Medicine and College of Pharmacy, as well as with clinicians, to identify, develop, implement and evaluate simulation-based activities. This has resulted in six publications since 2017 and nearly 30 state and national presentations by members of the team.
Two University of Florida College of Nursing students, at right, listen in as Frank Genuardi, M.D., M.P.H., speaks to the group during a simulation exercise.
The College of Nursing is now increasing simulation hours throughout its courses on the main campus and in Jacksonville. Focal points include disease processes, such as diabetes and perioperative care; care processes, such as end of life, labor and birth; and other areas to which students may have limited exposure. Through simulation, their care delivery can be more closely observed and they have greater independence in decision making.
RELEVANT APPLICATION
The most recent effort has been the integration and use of standardized patients in simulations where communication competencies are key. In addition, the three UF colleges in Jacksonville continue to refine and revise their medication management simulations. Scenarios are being rotated out and replaced with those that reflect the needs of health care systems in the community and across the state. One such system involves recognition, treatment and follow-up care for opioid misuse and abuse.
University of Florida College of Nursing students review information during simulation training on the UF Health Jacksonville campus.
Looking ahead, simulation will continue to play a vital role in preparing students to collaborate to meet the many challenges they will face in today’s complex health care settings. I am grateful to Dr. Gannon for her leadership and collaboration to enhance simulation opportunities for our students.
As the world commemorates the “Year of the Nurse and Widwife,” the UF College of Nursing is joining in the celebration and recognizing the many achievements of our faculty, students and alumni. We take pride in helping grow tomorrow’s nursing leaders, who will care for our loved ones, conduct innovative research that drives discovery and educate future generations to care, lead and inspire.
