The Creative Art Form of Healthcare Simulation: Increasing Realism & Outcomes

A healthcare simulation technician (HST) is a multifaceted role that relies on a broad range of knowledge. The addition of a healthcare simulation technician (HST) to a simulation-based healthcare education team can have a positive impact on the team's ability to deliver quality simulations. A simulation technician typically has a core set of responsibilities such as event setup and breakdown, cleaning and evaluating any equipment used during the simulation, audiovisual support for courses, and any on-site simulator maintenance. Outside of these core responsibilities, HST’s engage in many other responsibilities based on the type of center and the programs supported by that center.

However, identifying the training needs of HSTs is hampered by a lack of a clear understanding of the competency requirements of the role. A survey of simulation center directors found that only 2% of respondents found adequately qualified HSTs from an application pool. Creativity, out-of-the-box thinking, agility, and flexibility are just some of the characteristics ideal for a HST position and propose that hiring an artist or creative, and building an organizational culture that allows time and space conducive to creativity, innovation and on the job training has the potential to shape the Sim Tech position according to the needs of the simulation education team while also developing the individual professionally.

The presenter will share several modifications, methods, best practices, innovations and work arounds developed during his journey as a simulation technician and creative specialist and how a background in the arts helped pave the way to a Master of science in healthcare simulation.