The nursing program at Moorpark College got a much-needed $125,000 grant that will be used to expand the school’s nursing facilities.

Part of the grant was used to purchase a $30,000 computer-operated mannequin that simulates what it is like to deal with a patient in intensive care.

Sim-man (simulation man), the name given to the mannequin by its Texas-made producer Laerdal, performs many functions.

A cable connects Sim-man’s side to a laptop with special software that is used by the professor to change the dummy’s vital functions in order to simulate symptoms of specific disorders.

Students can see the mannequin’s breathing patterns – its chest expands and compresses.

Sim-man’s neck has speakers, and he can make coughing sounds and give short answers to questions.

The mannequin has replaceable panels on its body that allow nursing students to practice dressing different injuries.

“I think it [the mannequins] is making the students more technologically savvy because in the hospital setting technology is always increasing,” said MC Instructional Lab Tech, Christina Woo.

The growing technology used with the mannequins allows students to get a more realistic opportunity to practice what they have been learning in textbooks. Woo feels that Sim-man and future generations of simulation products will help nursing students be more prepared for real life hospital situations.

For more information on the MC nursing program please contact Christina Woo at (805) 378-1400 x1829 or email [email protected].