Prime Highlights:
Lethbridge Polytechnic’s Simulation Hub has received accreditation from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH), making it one of only four post-secondary institutions in Canada with this distinction.
The Simulation Hub offers immersive, hands-on training in a variety of healthcare settings, including emergency care and massage therapy, preparing students for real-world, high-stress healthcare situations.
The hub serves students from various programs, including Nursing, Massage Therapy, Primary Care Paramedic, and Health Care Aide, providing training across multiple healthcare disciplines.
Key Background:
Lethbridge Polytechnic’s Simulation Hub, located in the Centre for Health and Wellness, has officially received international accreditation from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH), becoming one of only four post-secondary institutions in Canada to achieve this distinction. This significant accomplishment follows two years of meticulous preparation and a rigorous application process.
Marie Laenen, an instructor at the Simulation Hub, expressed pride in the accreditation, noting that Lethbridge Polytechnic is rapidly gaining recognition as a premier destination for healthcare professional training in Canada. The institution’s focus on career readiness and improved patient outcomes has made it an attractive option for learners and collaborators alike.
The Simulation Hub is a state-of-the-art clinical laboratory that replicates various healthcare environments, from emergency care to less intensive settings such as massage therapy. It provides students with hands-on, immersive experiences that simulate high-stress healthcare situations, allowing them to gain skills that are critical for complex patient care. This hands-on training supplements clinical placements, ensuring students are well-prepared for real-world healthcare challenges while meeting the necessary training requirements.
Founded in 2004, SSH is an international organization dedicated to improving healthcare performance and reducing errors through simulation-based training. To date, SSH has accredited 180 simulation facilities worldwide. Lethbridge Polytechnic’s achievement reflects its dedication to providing high-quality student experiences and fostering strong collaborative relationships. Dr. Brad Donaldson, President and CEO of Lethbridge Polytechnic, emphasized the significance of this accreditation as a reflection of the institution’s commitment to preparing students with the skills necessary for success in their future careers.
The Simulation Hub serves not only nursing students but also individuals enrolled in programs like Massage Therapy, Primary Care Paramedic, and Health Care Aide, among others. Deanna Gonnelly, Associate Dean of Health and Wellness, highlighted that the accreditation underscores the institution’s mission to positively impact patient outcomes through exceptional healthcare education. This recognition enhances Lethbridge Polytechnic’s standing both nationally and internationally, reinforcing its commitment to healthcare education and student success.
