Anesthesiology

Simulation Center

The SimLab features interactive human and computer-based simulation. This exciting new technology is at the forefront of every level of medical education and patient care. Simulation places trainees in life-like situations that provide immediate feedback about clinical decisions and actions. The SimLab is a unique forum that facilitates interdisciplinary contacts and relationships throughout Cooper University Hospital. Under the direction of Dr. Michael Goldberg, Chief of the Department of Anesthesiology, Dr. Burden is working with many of the other departments in the hospital, as well as community hospitals in the area to address their educational needs and safety initiatives.
 
The SimLab programs continue to be popular and successful.  The Difficult Airway Course teaches difficult airway management to Anesthesia Residents, Emergency Medicine residents and Critical Care Fellows, and is a very popular course. Dr. Burden works closely with Dr. Gratz to design programs that will help the Anesthesia residents master key scientific and clinical concepts for their Written and Oral Board Exams in keeping with the goals of The American Board of Anesthesiology.  Dr. Burden and Dr. Gourkanti works with the Department of Pediatrics to help create a difficult airway course for their residents, and to help them design programs to use the newly acquired Simbaby. 

Under Dr. Burden’s leadership, and with significant support from the Department of Anesthesiology, and the Division of Academic Affairs,the Simulation Laboratory has begun a research mission.  Studies are underway about how to best teach students, and what programs to best use to enhance patient safety.  Dr. Burden and the Simulation Laboratory have had all 12 abstracts, 2 papers, and 1 editorial that they submitted accepted for publication.  Dr. Burden collaborated with the Department of Anesthesiology at Stanford University on an article for publication in The Journal of Simulation in Healthcare.  She has been selected for leadership position in the Society for Simulation in Healthcare.  She serves on the ASA Simulation Education Committee, and on the Education Committee for Public Affairs and Government Relations.

The SimMan lecture is a popular component of the Annual Cooper Anesthesia Conference at Lake Placid. Many members of the department have become certified as Facilitators of Simulation, and are involved in these exciting plans to increase the educational and research programs for the Department of Anesthesiology and for Cooper University Hospital.