Simulation Lab Design
The rapid growth of simulation labs over the past decade has changed the format of healthcare education. The early days of the SIM lab development were lead solely by new technologies, specifically the electronic patient. It has been more recently recognized that the physical environment can have a direct impact on the success of the teaching program. As designers with a background in SIM lab design, we understand the important role the environment plays in the learning experience.

In order to design a space that enhances learning and emphasizes collaboration among all professionals, it is important to understand the specific and unique needs of our client, whether they are a healthcare system, medical school, nursing school or allied health school. Before putting pencil to paper, we take the time to understand the goals of their program along with their resources available, budget constraints and schedule requirements. We also uncover the users’ needs. Given the many different user groups that these simulations labs may serve, we seek input from various professionals including nurses, doctors, surgeons, EMT’s and anesthesiologists. We take all of this information and combine it with our experience in healthcare and SIM lab design to create an environment that enhances the learning experience.

Although each SIM lab is unique, through our experience we have found there are universal elements that apply across all SIM Lab design projects, whether they are renovations or new construction. For example, with the rapid pace of advancements, SIM labs must be designed to be flexible enough to adapt to future changes in technology and equipment, otherwise they may be outdated before they are even put to use. Also, to maximize the effectiveness and usefulness of these spaces, learning labs should be in close proximity to classrooms and academic infrastructure. And finally, if budget allows, having a space that is solely dedicated to the simulation lab space, instead of using space that also serves another function, avoids the problems of limited access to necessary learning and observational features.

At Astorino, our designers are skilled and experienced in creating flexible and thoughtfully designed simulation labs and centers. If you are considering building a new SIM Lab or renovating an existing space, allow us to help you create an environment that best meets your needs.