Using simulation training to improve perioperative patient safety.

Simulation learning provides medical and nursing personnel with the opportunity to develop and refine their skills without putting patients at risk. Faced with ensuring the competence of a large number of new staff members, the management team at one facility implemented a simulation training program. Surgical team members are able to participate in an ongoing program of simulated scenarios involving surgical drape fires and airway fires, cardiac arrest of patients in the supine position and prone position, respiratory depression in the postanesthesia care unit, and malignant hyperthermia. The simulations help OR staff members identify problems that can happen during real emergencies and help them work as a team to prepare for events that may represent life-threatening situations for patients.