Video: Patient simulator gives trainees at West Sufffolk Hospital chance to get hands-on experience

A life-like £27,000 patient simulator which gives student medics at West Suffolk Hospital hands-on experience was showcased in Bury St Edmunds yesterday.

The full-size SimMan, similar to that seen on an episode of BBC’s Top Gear, was purchased with a donation from the Friends of West Suffolk Hospital.

The mannequin is controlled remotely from a computer and can replicate respiratory problems, an abnormal heart rate, collapsed lungs and bladder issues, while he can even suffer an allergic reaction which makes his tongue swell up.

His condition can deteriorate and improve, and he can hold a conversation with the doctors and nurses treating him to explain how he feels.

Students can even take blood samples from him and practice other techniques such as catheterisation.

James Whatling, clinical skills manager at the hospital, said: “We are absolutely delighted with SimMan, who is helping ensure our medical students and future doctors receive the best possible training.

“A state of the art piece of equipment, he helps us mimic emergency situations so that our students can practice how to manage these scenarios and build up their confidence and expertise before they start treating patients on the hospital wards.

“We are very grateful to the Friends for their donating the money to make this possible.”