In order to better prepare nursing students for the demands of their future careers, some schools are building new simulation laboratories on their campuses. By increasing the availability of these interactive academic environments, they give degree seekers a chance to practice their skills before entering the real world.
For instance, a total of $35 million in funding helped Grossmont College in San Diego launch a simulation lab, which features innovative medical equipment used in different medical scenarios. The new facility also features labs for students training for careers in physical science, occupational therapy, orthopedics, physics, forensic science and respiratory therapy.
Students also have the chance to work with six wireless patient mannequins that simulate health problems and bodily functions, including bleeding and breathing. This medical equipment allows future healthcare professionals to practice medication administration, catheterization, ventilation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Debbie Yaddow, associate dean of nursing at Grossmont, stated that "this facility is fabulous because you can run five different scenarios at one time without any disruption." She added that the wireless mannequins can be "transported and [undergo] procedures such as turning and moving them onto gurneys."
According the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008 nurses earned annual salaries ranging from $43,410 to $92,240.
