Sim Competition Challenges Students’ Medical Knowledge

Simulation events have proven to be one of the most valuable learning experiences students can participate in during their time in a healthcare program. The experiential learning format allows students to immerse themselves in a medical scenario and hone their skills under external stressors. In particular, competitions like the annual High-Fidelity Manikin Simulation Competition allow students to demonstrate both their individual skillset and their ability to work as a team.

During this year’s competition, seven teams participated in a series of cases that included a pulmonary embolism (lung blood clot), urosepsis (life-threatening urinary tract infection), an ectopic pregnancy, and anaphylaxis. Team 1—Allison Stassel, OMS II, Kaitlin Williams, OMS II, and Samantha Santora, OMS II—received first place for their treatment of a patient with a subarachnoid hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain).

“The judges and I hope everyone found the experience educational and beneficial,” said Dr. David Ross. “I would like to thank the teams for their willingness…to risk competing in a clinical scenario in front of faculty judges. All five teams are to be commended.”