Nursing students at the University of Central Florida will now have access to state-of-the-art simulation equipment for training thanks to a donation from Lockheed Martin.
Three high-fidelity mannequins, consumable medical supplies, an IV catheter trainer and other equipment will allow students to practice physical exams, history-taking, diagnostic and communication skills in a safe environment where learning can occur without risk to a patient.
“Simulation saves money, and training saves lives,” said Jon Rambeau, vice president and general manager for Lockheed Martin Training and Logistics Solutions. “We are proud to be a long-standing partner with UCF in advancing training and innovation right here in Central Florida.”
Simulated scenarios are becoming more useful to teaching and are now an integral part of nursing education. Not only can simulations be substituted for traditional clinical experience, but they can also allow educators a wider variety of scenarios for students to experience than traditional clinical rotations would normally allow.
“This is an incredibly generous gift,” said Mary Lou Sole, interim dean of the College of Nursing. “On average, one high-fidelity simulator can cost between $70,000 and $90,000—depending on its functionality. Thanks to Lockheed Martin’s donation, we received three simulators to put into immediate use.”
UCF has partnered with Lockheed Martin since 1992, with the establishment of the Lockheed Martin/University of Central Florida Academy for Mathematics and Sciences. Lockheeed also supports UCF’s Kenneth G. Dixon School of Accounting, the College of Optics and Photonics, Robotics Regional Competitions and the Veterans History Project, among others.
