All-in-one-room Schoolhouse. Clinical Simulation Stage, Control, Debrief, and Utilities All within a Single Room

The development of simulation centers across the globe has been blessed and impeded by different factors. Some have had the opportunity to start out with vast resources, while others, over a period of time, have had to make their way up the priority ladder of their institution's strategic development plan in order to achieve their aspirations. Some centers purchased the latest technology and devoted space to dedicated simulation, observation, and debriefing rooms. Others made do with a simpler, yet very operational, initial setup where everything happens within the walls of a single room. One is rarely designing a center from a blank canvas, no matter the size. Even for a new construction, the size and capabilities of your center will be bounded by limitations of finances, neighboring structures and facilities, location, and the needs and imagination of the host institution. Quite often, your center may be based in preexisting facilities, which limit some of your options. The major drawback with an "all-in-one room facility" is that participants might be able to see and/or hear the patient simulator operator making changes. Students' awareness of their instructors' presence is a great distracter, and all but eliminates their ability to assume responsibility for their patient. The simulation center will be a great attractant for guests, and their presence is another irritating distraction for the students. Instructors, guests, and fellow students have to remain silent in order not to disrupt their peers taking part in a scenario. Such a setup makes it all too easy for new faculty to prompt participants, again diminishing the learning potential of the simulation experience.