It was a simulation but Nipissing M.P.P. Vic Fedeli still felt it was very real.
Fedeli was in an operating room scenario with Nipissing/Canadore College nursing students learning hands on about the program.
On this day, Fedeli got to watch as they worked on an electronic mannequin, attempting to give it a blood transfusion.
“They were calm and collected but elevated as they were trying to treat the patient,” said Fedeli.
“You forget that it’s a simulation and they are actually in training and you have a real comfort level and security level that we will be in good hands in the next generation.”
Fedeli was there by invitation for “take your MPP to work day” last week.
Aside from the unique transfusion in the simulation lab, Fedeli learned more about the successes and challenges of practicing as a registered nurse (RN) in Ontario’s health-care system.
Officials from the program say the simulation helps students train hands-on in a low-risk environment, which improves their skills, builds confidence, contributes to safe patient care.
“That was a new experience because I hadn’t seen this thing before,” admitted Fedeli.
“It was important because you realize through speaking with the students why they came to Nipissing and Canadore and you realize there is a well respected program and then you watch them in the middle of this program. You have a half a dozen nurses huddled around this mannequin and you can see the care and the passion that was being administered by these men and women.”
The visit itself was spearheaded by the local chapter of The Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO), the professional association representing registered nurses in Ontario.
