Birthing simulator aides nursing students

By Jenny Johnston
Editor

    Students and faculty in the Ellen Finley Earhart Nursing Program recently welcomed a new member to their curriculum. Noelle, a computer-controlled mannequin, was purchased during the summer as an aid to provide a hands-on learning experience for nursing students. Acquiring this unique piece of equipment has been a long-term goal for Park’s nursing program. Gerry Walker, D.H.Ed, nursing program chair and assistant professor, explains the importance of the University’s commitment to purchase Noelle.
    “This technology is absolutely essential to the nursing program,” said Walker. “She [Noelle] is a critical piece of equipment for the students because she provides a simulated, hands-on birthing experience.”
    Noelle was introduced to Park in Fall 2010. During that time, she functioned as a general patient. She can have blood pressure, oxygen saturation, IV access, and many other features necessary for patient care. Now, for the first time ever, students are able to assume the role of a registered nurse in Noelle’s birthing simulation. According to Walker, simply observing a birth isn’t enough.
    “Nursing students don’t get good delivering and birthing experience if all they can do is watch videos or other nurses at the hospital,” said Walker. “At Park, an instructor will program the birth to have things go wrong, so students can prepare themselves, work through the complications and assess patient needs. They still learn the theories and processes in class, but she gives them a practical application.”
    Nursing students work with Noelle’s birthing simulation in the NU 265 (Clinical Nursing Practical Applications) course. Lisa Sneed, assistant professor of nursing, developed the simulation which gives students a 12-hour comprehensive experience in the skills lab. Noelle assists in the OB rotation of the course. Once students are fully immersed in the simulation experience, they take on the role as the primary caretaker for the patient.
   “Students are expected to do what an RN on a floor would do,” said Walker. “They have to be able to function at that level.”
    For more information about Noelle or the Ellen Finley Earhart Nursing Program, contact Walker at gerry.walker@park.edu or (816) 584-6359.