University of Iowa News Release

Sept. 21, 2007

Iowa's first mobile emergency medicine simulation lab debuts

The Emergency Medical Services Learning Resources Center (EMSLRC) at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City recently launched Iowa's only emergency medicine simulation lab on wheels.

The Mobile Emergency Treatment Center, which features a realistic ambulance setting, is built within a 40-foot motor home. The lab takes emergency medicine education to physicians, nurses, paramedics and other emergency care providers across the state.

The lab offers interactive training with high-fidelity patient simulators and prepares the participants for the unexpected. Participants are trained to make appropriate decisions and take timely actions during realistic patient care scenarios.

"This lab will dramatically improve the quality of education and training of paramedics, nurses, medical students and resident physicians," said Eric Dickson, M.D., director of Emergency Medical Services and head of the UI Department of Emergency Medicine. "We now have the capability to help educate and train health professionals in their communities anywhere in the state. It will function as our county extension office on wheels."

The Mobile Emergency Treatment Center is made possible by donations through the UI Foundation. Learn more online at http://www.uihealthcare.com/emslrc.

STORY SOURCE: Joint Office for Marketing and Communications, University of Iowa Health Care, 200 Hawkins Drive, Room E110 GH, Iowa City, Iowa 52242-1009