Mobile Sim Van: Crossing boundaries to make paediatric simulation based learning accessible to rural and remote Victoria - Excellence in motion.

Abstract

Paediatric Simulation Based Learning traditionally occurs in dedicated Sim Labs often attached to large metropolitan based hospitals and universities. Accessing these facilities is difficult for paediatric practitioners working in rural and remote areas as is the case within the Victorian Grampians Region which extends some 48,000 square kilometers. As the primary paediatric referral centre and provider of health care and education throughout this region, Ballarat Health Services sought to develop a mobile integrated learning environment (SIM VAN). Taking simulation directly to practitioners; and delivering an immersive learning experience comparable to that of embedded simulation centres was viewed as an innovative bridge that could change the way clinical skills were delivered. While a range of simulation based equipment/technology is currently available, it is predominantly designed for use in dedicated simulation learning environments and as such, is difficult to adapt to portable/mobile applications. Multi camera audio/visual capture, bookmarking, Vital-Sim/SimPad integration and instant playback pose particular challenges which demand a creative and innovative solution. Through collaboration with local industry, a smart phone, tablet based wireless system has been developed using original software allowing emulation of features usually only found in more sophisticated, embedded simulation systems. The construct of taking simulation based learning out of the “Sim Lab” and into the rural/remote clinical setting has necessitated the creation of new technology designed to provide quality paediatric simulation based learning wherever it is required. The adaptation of what we know and have in the way of resources was a driving force behind crossing the boundary into what we need, which was taking the clinical simulation experience to the people. This paper will share that journey and present the outcomes achieved thus far.