New simulation ward opens at hospital

A new simulation ward has opened at a hospital in Surrey.

The three-bed ward at St Peter's Hospital, in Chertsey, is aimed at "improving patient outcomes" by giving clinical staff and medical students the opportunity to practise simulated medical procedures, including the treatment of cardiac arrest, and major trauma.

The facility is located in the hospital's education centre and funded by the money the trust receives from medical schools for the teaching of students.

A spokesperson for Ashford & St Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said it offered "a vast selection of simulation experiences, from clinical skills to the most common scenarios that occur in clinical practice".

In addition, there is a complementary simulation suite that can mimic major trauma on the roadside or an attack on the London Underground.

Prof Pankaj Sharma, former director of education at the trust, developed the new ward.

He said: "The education landscape is rapidly evolving to train using simulation methods where clinicians and students in all patient professions can practise and receive feedback in a safe environment before going into clinical practice."

The ward was officially opened by Mark Roland, the chief medical officer.

He said: "This is a fantastic achievement and a great resource for our clinicians and students."

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