Trauma Simulation Provides Lifesaving Training
Support from Benefactors Funds Critical Education for Clinical Staff
The Vail Health Trauma Services Department organizes an annual interdisciplinary trauma simulation to foster interdepartmental collaboration, communication, and education during a trauma activation of a critical patient.
To create a real-life scenario, the team uses a “Cut Suit” surgical simulator and a high-fidelity mannequin designed to imitate extreme physical trauma so medical and non-medical personnel can safely learn to manage in a severe trauma patient situation.
Staff from The Borgen Family Emergency Department and Trauma Center (ED), Intensive Care Unit, Anesthesia, Perioperative area, Trauma Surgeons, Trauma Physician Assistants, Pharmacy, lab, Respiratory, and the Nursing Supervisor participate in the high-acuity, low-frequency scenarios.
A Mass Transfusion Protocol is initiated, which is a rapid administration of large amounts of blood products in fixed ratios. The exercise allows laboratory staff to practice using simulated blood and blood products, including thawing simulated fresh frozen plasma. The bedside staff is then able to infuse the critical blood products rapidly. Resuscitation, which includes the set up of critical equipment, medications administration, and transfer to the operating room, continues until the “patient” is stabilized and transferred to a higher level of care.
Annual training exercises allow recurring opportunities for participation in this simulation. Education programs for clinical staff, such as this one, ensure Vail Health can continue to provide the most advanced quality health services that lead to improved patient outcomes.
