Dickinson State offers real hospital challenges in a classroom setting

May 8—DICKINSON — In the heart of Dickinson State University, nursing students step into a world mirroring the intense and unpredictable atmosphere of a real hospital, thanks to a state-of-the-art simulation lab. This cutting-edge program, encompassing high-fidelity simulations in Klinefelter Hall, equips future nurses with critical hands-on experience, allowing them to face real-life medical scenarios safely and confidently

the simulation labs span two floors and form a required part of the curriculum for all nursing students. These simulations allow students to tackle real-life challenges and complications in a risk-free environment, preparing them for any future clinical setting.

On May 6th, Lynette Silbernagel, Simulation Coordinator, along with other nursing faculty, hosted an open house in celebration of National Nurses Week. Community members had the chance to observe the hands-on learning experiences of DSU nursing students, witness the faculty's dedication, and acknowledge the impact of a $100,000 donation.

"Because in nursing you can not always guarantee what you are going to see when you go to a clinical experience and so with our simulator we are able to offer opportunities surrounding pediatric patients, newborn patients, adult patients with different health conditions that you may not see in the clinical setting," Silbernagel explained. "You can't guarantee that someone is going to come in with a heart attack, you don't know if someone is going to come in and you are going to have to perform CPR. So that is where our simulators give our students an opportunity to experience real-life scenarios."

Silbernagel takes a highly hands-on approach in her role; she researches and develops scenarios for students to navigate, including simulating authentic reactions from patients' family members. She presents her students with complex scenarios, such as prolonged CPR when a patient's cardiac rhythm is irregular, requiring students to alternate performing compressions.

Students have responded positively, engaging deeply in cooperative learning and post-scenario discussions.

"They tend to be highly engaged as we use small groups—usually three to five students per simulation," Silbernagel said. "It's about the dialogue. I recently reminded them that even though each group executed the scenario correctly, if one step had been wrong, the simulator would have 'died.' We discuss potential pitfalls if something is done incorrectly or goes unrecognized."

During the open house, Assistant Professor of Nursing Trista Keith showcased the OB lab, which was set up at the start of the fall semester in 2023. She detailed how faculty can control simulations, adjusting simulated babies' heart rates, inducing crying, or changing colors to mimic real-life complications. Faculty can operate various scenarios from the control room, voice patients' concerns, and monitor student responses.

Keith expressed gratitude for the $100,000 donation from Glenice and Dale Hansen, highlighting its significant impact on student learning experiences.

"Technology is incredible, and with the support of our donors, we've been able to keep pace with advancements," Keith remarked. "Offering the best experience for our students is paramount. You can see as they walk in here their excitement, knowing that they have this quality learning space for them through the nursing program."

Silbernagel highlighted the program's success, noting DSU's one hundred percent pass rate from the previous year's students. This achievement reflects strong student engagement and retention of critical information. DSU offers a four-year program that allows students to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) after two years and Registered Nurses (RNs) upon graduation.

Although the fall class is currently full, Silbernagel encouraged prospective students to join the waiting list. She emphasized the diverse roles nurses play in healthcare and the importance of preparing the next generation of providers. The program offers at least 39 specialized nursing roles suited to various candidates.

"I've had students return and express gratitude, saying, 'I recognized this from simulation when encountering it in my clinical work.' That's incredibly rewarding," Silbernagel expressed. "With the generous gift from Dennis and Glynis Hanson, we've been able to expand our program significantly."