University News Last updated 27 March 2015
An overturned car, screams and multiple casualties may sound like the scene of a horrific accident … but it's all in a day's work for nursing students.
Laura Critchley, who is studying child nursing at Birmingham City University, took part in a mock road traffic accident at the Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences this week.
Laura was confronted with mayhem at the simulated scene of a car crash, which put to full use the faculty's suite of training facilities at Edgbaston.
Students and professionals arriving at the major incident scene were greeted by screams and cries for help from casualties, some trapped inside their cars. The walking wounded, sporting bleeding head wounds and lacerations, scrambled away from the devastating scene, whilst others desperately tried to help those who lay motionless.
An operating theatre and mock A&E department were put on red alert to receive 'patients' needing emergency surgery following the crash, which was a training exercise for student nurses, paramedics, radiographers and operating department practitioners.
Joining forces with medical students from the University of Birmingham and West Midlands Fire and Police Services, the team managed the scene, responding to the situation as though it were a real life major incident.
Laura said: "The atmosphere throughout the simulation can only be described as 'real'. Everyone was so serious, and completely pushed out of their comfort zones, but we collaborated as true professionals.
"Communication was key throughout. I would encourage anyone and everyone to participate in this type of event. The exercise has certainly helped me prepare for my newly qualified practice and has definitely helped boost my confidence."
Supported by The Higher Education Academy, the event is now in its third year and aims to put students clinical and communication skills into practice.
