Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC)Community Medical School continued April 21 with a discussion of the benefits of simulated learning for future health care providers by Sharon Decker, Ph.D., R.N., ANEF, TTUHSC School of Nursing professor, director of the F. Marie Hall SimLife Center. Decker also provided a tour of the F. Marie Hall SimLife Center.

Sherry Sancibrian, M.S., professor in the TTUHSC School of Allied Health Sciences, opened the event with a brief overview of the history, symptoms and most-effective approaches to the challenges associated with autism. In her presentation, Sancibrian noted that April is Autism Awareness Month and celebrated the progress made in diagnosing and treating autism. Sancibrian also emphasized the importance of communities in which families with children support each other and share insight.

“I think the best thing is to not leave families all on their own,” Sancibrian said.

Decker presentation focused on the possibility of decreasing the instance of error in health care using simulated learning to practice protocols that reduce mistakes. Furthermore, Decker urged all patients and their families to consider themselves a part of the health care team and remain vigilant to improve outcomes. Decker told the audience that safety is everyone’s responsibility in health care.

“Everyone, including the doctors, nurses, patient and their families, is responsible for patient safety,” Decker said. “Speak up.”

Finally, attendees had the opportunity to tour TTUHSC Lubbock’s F. Marie Hall SimLife Center to gain a better understanding of the opportunities TTUHSC students have to practice procedures and skills. The 25,000 square foot center features state-of-the-art technology to produce quality simulations training current and future health care professionals to be expert providers.

Community Medical School continues May 19with “Skinny Genes: New Trends in DNA Testing” presented by Ericka Hendrix, M.S., assistant professor, program director, and Katie Bennett, Ph.D., assistant director, both of the TTUHSC School of Allied Health Sciences molecular pathology program.