Types of Healthcare Simulation: Locations and Training – Who, What, and Where?

Healthcare simulation happens in a variety of settings and with a diversity of innovative training activities and tools. These tools and settings are based on the learning objectives and goals of a given group. Programs utilize either simulation centers or in situ training depending on the learning objectives, educational needs, and the space that is both accessible and most feasible for the activity and its desired outcomes. For academic groups, these learning objectives are based on the curriculum that is created to teach or emphasize a specific topic. For practicing clinicians, care providers, or allied healthcare workers, these training sessions may be to improve system processes, skills, or techniques, reinforce knowledge, or introduce new research and innovations. Regardless of the learner type, it is important to match the learning objectives with the tools and ensure the most appropriate functional space is available to conduct the trainings. Different types of simulation options can be integrated in order to achieve these goals; and this chapter will describe some of the skill backgrounds, training needs, and methods that educators have used to meet requirements for different learner types. Understanding the role and scope of practice for each member of the healthcare team will help to identify what part of a simulation program is most applicable to each.