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Iowa Simulation Center: Surgery Skills Lab
The state-of-the-art Surgery Skills Center provides an ideal controlled environment to help learners of all levels integrate medical knowledge and critical thinking, learn and practice fundamental and advanced technical skills and explore advances in technology.
Completed in 2006, the 4,000 square-foot facility includes simulation model labs, a computer technology lab and a simulation operating room lab. The center easily accommodates up to 20 students with its two large simulated operating room suites with multiple stations, eight scrub sinks, men's and women's locker rooms and physician lounge. Special equipment includes a digital overhead camera, station monitors for viewing and recording procedures and laparoscopic equipment. Adjacent to the operating room suites are two large didactic rooms that include a wide range of surgical models, a computer lab, a conference room, office space and workroom.
The basic surgical skills course is an integral component of the curriculum for the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and Physician Assistant degree programs. The 20-hour progressive lab course includes didactic, hands-on skills experience and integration of critical thinking. It encompasses the AOA core competencies of medical knowledge, patient care, interpersonal and communication skills, professionalism and systems-based practice. Instructors for the course include faculty, general surgery residents or nurses and surgery teaching assistants. The student-to-instructor ratio is 1:2 during all aspects of the lab.
Both general surgery and family practice residents utilize the Surgery Skills Center to practice surgical skills. In addition, the center gives area surgeons the opportunity to advance surgical skills as new technology evolves and develops.
