The simulation training facilities at Leicester utilise military-specification mannequins, which are controlled wirelessly and enable realistic monitoring of parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate and lung condition, and even allow blood samples to be taken. Life-size, and of realistic weight, they enable skill and confidence levels to be tested under close to real world conditions, along with the ability to arrive at the correct diagnosis under pressure - all without unnecessary risk to patients.
Fitted with a loudspeaker, the mannequin's 'voice' is relayed by a wireless link from whoever on the simulation team is acting as the 'patient' for a given scenario. The HME intercoms are used to provide the vital real-time communications links between the scenario director, the mannequin operator, and the patient's 'voice', as well as with any team members who may be taking part in the scenario as visible participants, typically in the role of the patient's friends or relatives.
James McLean, lead practitioner Clinical Skills Unit, and the trust lead for simulation at Leicester Royal Infirmary, commented, "We needed a discreet solution, and clear communications lines, to keep the scenario presentations as slick and as convincing as possible. Our communications have to be as imperceptible to the trainees as possible, and the HME equipment has proved invaluable in helping us achieve that - it has performed exactly as promised, and has never missed a beat. Previously, we were pretty much relying on hand signals to do the same job - nowhere near as effective or convincing."
Following the success of the HME deployment at Leicester, Orbital has also supplied a similar facility, the Bristol Medical Simulation Centre, with the same complement and specification of HME digital wireless intercom equipment.
(Jim Evans)
