New Simulation Space Helping Residents and Fellows Enhance Skills
Simulation training has always been an integral component of medical education as it allows students and trainees the ability to practice important skills and procedures before entering clinical settings. Simulation training also helps practicing trainees and faculty improve their knowledge and confidence in medical procedures.
A new simulation space at the M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Medical Center has been built to give current residents and fellows the resources to further hone their skills. The new space has been set up to replicate transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) exams so residents and fellows have the understanding and confidence to perform such exams in clinic routinely.
“By taking advantage of the OR simulation space, residents and fellows have the perfect opportunity to enhance their skills at any time,” says Dr. Rafael Vinagre, a third-year resident. “Thanks to the high-fidelity TEE/TTE equipment, we are able to deliver excellent patient care.”
A transthoracic echocardiogram is a commonly performed echocardiogram where ultrasound is used to view internal parts of the heart. Meanwhile, a transesophageal echocardiogram uses a probe to create images of the heart from inside the body.
Both TTE and TEE are essential exams for residents and fellows to master. The new space, available to trainees 24/7, will allow them to easily practice the exams before or after conducting them in the hospital.
This new space is just another element to the department’s resident and fellow curriculum and an expansion of other simulation space and training provided to students and trainees. Other advanced training is also routinely provided through M Simulation, the University of Minnesota’s health sciences simulation training center.
This project was made possible by the great insight and leadership provided by Drs. Sudarshan Setty and Kirke Rogers who worked tirelessly to see this project completed. Also a huge thank you to our generous alumni and donors who provided funding for the equipment of this new simulation space.
