UPEI Launches Innovative Medical Simulation Centre for Future Doctors

The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) has officially opened its new Clinical Learning and Simulation Centre (CLSC), aimed at enhancing the training of future healthcare professionals. This state-of-the-art facility allows students to engage in realistic medical scenarios using advanced technology and simulated patients, bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical experience.

Catherine O’Brien, a seasoned actor and director from Prince Edward Island, plays a pivotal role in the CLSC as a standardized patient. Her journey in medical simulation began while working part-time with the University of Toronto, where she participated in programs that employed regular individuals to act as patients in simulated medical settings. O’Brien now offers her expertise to UPEI’s medical students, helping them develop essential skills in a controlled environment.

During a recent broadcast on CBC’s Island Morning, O’Brien explained the significance of her role. “They will learn how to interview, how to ask the right questions, how to make the patient feel comfortable using empathy,” she said. Students interact with her by asking questions and responding to her scripted symptoms, mimicking real patient scenarios to enhance their learning experience.

Realistic Training for Future Healthcare Professionals

The CLSC is designed to replicate actual clinical environments, equipped with high-fidelity manikins capable of simulating various medical conditions. Paul Charles, the simulation program manager, emphasized the importance of this realistic training approach. “We recreate the simulation rooms like clinical hospital rooms, where they’re actually going to see medication carts and vital machines,” he noted. This hands-on experience is intended to make students more competent and confident, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the strain on the healthcare system.

In addition to training students, the centre also offers resources for current healthcare professionals to refine their skills. Tammie Muise, the centre’s director, highlighted a new addition to their training resources—a mobile “simulation rig.” This unique trailer, equipped to resemble an ambulance, allows for real-time simulations of critical medical situations, such as strokes or heart attacks. “They can really fine-tune those skills to help improve patient outcomes,” Muise explained, showcasing the centre’s commitment to practical application in urgent care scenarios.

Connecting Actors and Medical Students

O’Brien’s involvement in the CLSC underscores a collaborative approach to medical education, where individuals from diverse backgrounds contribute to the training process. She expressed her enthusiasm for working with the first cohort of medical students, stating, “I have a few coming up, which I’m excited to get going with.” This synergy between performing artists and medical training reflects a broader trend in education, wherein experiential learning plays a crucial role in preparing students for real-world challenges.

The opening of UPEI’s Clinical Learning and Simulation Centre marks a significant advancement in medical training for the region. As healthcare demands continue to evolve, initiatives like this are essential in ensuring that future professionals are well-equipped to provide high-quality care. With a focus on empathy, skill development, and practical experience, the CLSC aims to prepare its students not just for exams, but for impactful careers in healthcare.