Small, claustrophobic, and crowded are the words used to describe the old simulation learning lab at the San Jose Medical Center. “Our former lab was in a trailer, and it just was not a viable space,” said Richard Dansereau, MSN, RN, Nursing Development Specialist.
Then, in January 2024, Luis Barberia, DNP, FNP, RN, CNL, Director, Nursing Development Professional, helped create a new learning/simulation lab, giving nurses a space to participate in didactic and hands‑on training. “The new lab was created so staff can have a safe environment to perform evidence‑based practices and simulations, to make and learn from their mistakes without the fear of harming someone,” said Barberia.
“In addition to simulations, the lab has a classroom setting where staff can listen to lectures and use the computers to complete their education modules,” adds Rosa Moreno, clinical nurse educator.
In the learning lab, nursing staff can participate in scenarios ranging from basic patient care to complex medical emergencies, like a code blue situation. “There’s also a pregnant mannequin that our labor and delivery nurses can practice on. We also have a crash cart training, so staff knows how and when to use it,” details Feliciano Posadas, MSN, RN, CNOR, Perioperative Nursing Professional Development Specialist.
With the new lab, nurses get more hands‑on learning opportunities. “When you simply lecture, people remember 5, maybe 10% of the information, but when you have the chance to demonstrate and visualize, you get a lot more out of it,” explains Barberia.
“Recently, a registered nurse in the operating room had a code blue situation, but knew exactly how to call for help, get a crash cart, and support the anesthesia provider with emergency supplies, all things she learned in the lab during her onboarding process,” sites Posadas.
“The work done in the lab helps boost the confidence and skills of our nurses. It helps them provide competent care to our patients because that’s why we are here at the end of the day,” said Dansereau.
The nursing staff values the new lab. A recent survey indicates high satisfaction with the lab, activities, materials, presentations, and instructors. “If I can summarize the new lab in one sentence, I would say it enhances clinical competencies of staff and builds confidence in our nursing employees,” emphasizes Posadas.