UPEI Launches Innovative Medical Simulation Centre for Future Doctors

The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) has unveiled its new Clinical Learning and Simulation Centre (CLSC), a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance medical education through realistic training scenarios. This initiative aims to better prepare future healthcare professionals by simulating real-life medical situations, giving students the opportunity to practice before treating actual patients.

Catherine O’Brien, a seasoned actor and director, plays a pivotal role as a standardized patient at the CLSC. Her involvement began years ago with a program at the University of Toronto, where individuals portrayed patients to assist in medical training. Now, at UPEI, she brings her expertise to help students refine their interviewing and empathetic skills. “They will learn how to interview, how to ask the right questions, how to make the patient feel comfortable using empathy,” O’Brien explained during a recent CBC broadcast from the UPEI campus.

The CLSC offers a wide range of training tools, including high-fidelity manikins that can simulate various medical conditions. Paul Charles, the centre’s simulation program manager, emphasized the importance of creating realistic environments for students. “We recreate the simulation rooms like clinical hospital rooms with medication carts and vital machines, as well as manikins that can breathe, talk, and exhibit symptoms like heart attacks and seizures,” Charles stated. This approach aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application, ultimately enhancing student confidence and competence.

The centre’s offerings extend beyond students; healthcare professionals can also utilize the facility’s resources to sharpen their skills. Tammie Muise, the centre’s director, noted an innovative addition to their training program—a “simulation rig.” This trailer, designed to mimic the interior of an ambulance, allows health professionals to practice responding to critical situations like strokes or heart attacks in a controlled environment. “They can really fine-tune those skills to help improve patient outcomes,” Muise explained.

O’Brien has already interacted with the first cohort of students at UPEI’s medical school, expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming training sessions. “I have a few coming up, which I’m excited to get going with,” she said.

The CLSC represents a significant step forward in medical education at UPEI, providing an interactive and supportive environment where students can gain essential skills. By incorporating realistic simulations into their training, the university is setting a new standard for healthcare education in the region.