Horizon Health Network has introduced virtual reality simulators at four regional hospitals.

This allows new innovative ways to help with operating room (OR) training and assessment of nurses.

Using PeriopSim technology, developed by Conquer Experience Inc., Horizon is using advanced, state-of-the-art technology to accelerate training for OR nurses and better prepare them for surgical nursing by ensuring they have expertise in the field before they begin in the OR.

“Using virtual reality simulations as training will allow our nursing staff to train on a variety of surgeries and ensure competency before they step into the OR room,” said Amy McCavour, executive regional director and co-lead of Horizon Surgical Services and Intensive Care. “This will significantly optimize training time for nurses and allow them to feel more confident prior to working in the OR environment, helping ensure the delivery of safe and quality care to our patients.”

The four regional hospitals where the new technology is being used are The Moncton Hospital, Saint John Regional Hospital, Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton, and Miramichi Regional Hospital.

The technology offers a simulation of several surgeries and instrument sets, including:
” General Surgery: Hernia repair and Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder removal);
” Neurosurgery: Burr Hole (Relieve intracranial pressure) and Craniotomy; and
” Orthopedic surgery: Fractured hip surgery and joint replacement

“This new training opportunity is just one example of how we’re improving the overall patient experience,” said Greg Doiron, Vice President of Clinical Operations. “When our nurses feel more confident going into the OR room, our patients feel more relaxed and at ease because they know the nurses caring for them are well trained.”