By James Ragasa, Kapi‘o Staff Writer
Kapi‘olani Community College nursing students are better equipped to face real-world care situations following the purchase of some $5,000 in new equipment, including a “simulation man” capable of reacting to pain.
The new equipment and facility enhancements, purchased prior to the start of the current semester, includes three labs, three new hospital beds, and pumps for patients that require tube feeding.
The equipment is the similar to that used in local facilities like Straub Clinic and Hospital and Kuakini Medical Center.
“Students pay professional fees, depending on the program, and deserve the most in their learning experience,” said associate professor of nursing Elizabeth Ottoson. “This will really help the students. All the new equipment purchased by the school is paid for by the student’ tuition and fees, which benefits them in the long run.”
The new “simulation man” is a human-like model that is capable of expressing pain or discomfort in response to clinical conditions or treatment, adding a new level of reality to hands-on clinical training.
KCC offers a variety of nursing programs ,including long-term care nurse aide, practical nursing, transition for licensed practical nurses, and registered nurse preparation.