Elevating Healthcare Education with Immersive Simulations
Through realistic home care and mental health simulations, Saint Joseph’s students build empathy, enhance clinical skills and prepare for real-world challenges.
This spring, Saint Joseph’s nursing students participated in simulations that addressed complex healthcare scenarios, from financial abuse to understanding psychiatric disabilities. These innovative training opportunities, which took place in the University’s 20,000-square foot Center for Excellence in Practice, underscore the University’s commitment to preparing the next generation of healthcare leaders, innovators and caregivers.
“These simulations enhance our students’ education by providing experiential learning beyond the classroom,” says Kristen Zulkosky, PhD, clinical professor of graduate nursing and director of the Center for Excellence in Practice.
In early April, students took part in a simulated home health assessment involving an older couple, during which they witnessed a scenario of financial abuse by the couples' daughter. This interactive learning experience taught students about the multifaceted role of healthcare professionals and the importance of caring for the whole individual.
“You are the patient’s advocate,” says Zulkosky. “Even if someone has power of attorney, as a healthcare provider, you must speak up, notify your supervisor and ensure you don’t walk away without addressing the situation.”
Later in April, students engaged in a mental health simulation to increase their understanding of psychiatric disabilities and gain empathy for those who struggle with them. Participants wore earbuds that played distressing voices while completing mock tasks, simulating the experience of someone living with schizophrenia.
“It puts our students in someone else's shoes,” says Nicholai Best, simulation operations manager. “When they encounter patients like these in real life, it helps them realize the motivation behind their behaviors.”