Plans to Update the Simulation and Experiential Learning Centers
Jan. 16, 2022 – Valparaiso, Indiana – The Valparaiso University College of Nursing and Health Professions will receive $1 million to update its Simulation and Experiential Learning Centers. The funding was made possible from federal appropriations secured by U.S. Representative Frank J. Mrvan, and is part of more than $20.5 million designated specifically for Northwest Indiana projects. This award will ensure that the next generation of health care professionals have the opportunities they need to provide their respective communities with exceptional care.
“I want to thank Representative Mrvan and President Biden for providing this critical funding that will benefit students and faculty across the College,” said Karen Allen, Ph.D., dean of the College of Nursing and Health Professions. “We have been ranked within the top 22% of nursing programs in the country, and are excited to bring our flagship building up to date in many needed areas.”
The Simulation Center is an immersive, hands-on way to teach students clinical decision-making skills using simulated scenarios, allowing them to experience their future roles and make clinical judgments in a safe learning environment. This includes utilizing high-fidelity simulators that are programmed to present a variety of clinical symptoms in a realistic manner. Students have the opportunity to practice not only the soft skills as they interact with patients, but also practice the technical skills to effectively facilitate care.
The updates to the Simulation and Experiential Learning Centers will include the purchase of new beds with side tables and monitors, an advanced management simulator for dealing with chest tubes, and two medium fidelity, full-body “Advanced Clinical Chloe” simulators.
“What is even greater than new equipment and updated spaces is the impact this will have on the students’ opportunity to learn, grow and practice a variety of clinical simulations in an environment that mimics many health care centers,” said Gail Kost MSN, RN, clinical assistant professor and director of the Experiential Learning Center.
For more information on the ways the College of Nursing and Health Professions prepares future health care leaders, visit valpo.edu/nursing.
