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Practice makes perfect: Healthcare students train in simulated ED

20 June 2024
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A simulated dog bite was just one of many trauma events students had to face during the simulated learning event

CQUniversity students experienced the highs and lows of emergency medicine recently as they delivered patient care during a three-day simulation event in Rockhampton.

Third-year nursing and paramedicine students cared for simulated patients as they worked alongside multidisciplinary healthcare professionals as part of a research study. 

Cases that presented to the simulated emergency department varied from car accidents to snake bites and from broken limbs to infections, gaining interest from students as they put theory into practice.                              

The study aims to explore the potential of authentic and realistic simulation to partially replace clinical placement hours for students.


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Paramedic students work along side Royal Flying Doctor Service staff during the simulated emergency department event

CQUniversity researcher and Acting Deputy Dean Learning and Teaching for the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Sciences Rachelle Cole said simulation events like these allow for rehearsal and refinement of skills for students.

“Practice makes perfect. Students can safely make mistakes here and no one gets hurt, but huge lessons are learned.”

Whilst the 2024 event has concluded, research in the field continues and planning is underway for another simulation event in 2025.


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Laura Scotney shows off her simulated head wound during the simulated emergency department event