Africa’s first safety simulation ward opens
AFRICA’S first safety simulation ward, in Groote Schuur Hospital, will promote safe practices in healthcare working environments.
The ward is equipped with updated resources necessary for cross-sectoral collaboration and inter-professional learning, leading to better teamwork between staff and from across the health service.
Through the collaboration between Groote Schuur Hospital, UCT and medical technology company BD (Becton Dickinson), the refurbished centre of “excellence” was officially opened yesterday.
Director of the UCT Clinical Skills Centre Dr Rachel Weiss said the clinical work environment posed multiple threats to both healthcare providers and patients.
“It (the ward) will benefit students, nurses, doctors and other staff. They will be able to practise a range of skills. Learning is supported through the ongoing development of a safety curriculum, methods for testing policies and protocols related to sharp and infection prevention and a digital library with multimedia educational resources,” said Weiss.
Zolelwa Sifumba, a medical doctor intern who contracted multidrug-resistant TB while working with patients, said it was great that a culture of safety was being created early in a student’s training.
“A facility like this will go a long way in assisting students. Unlike when we were trained, they will gain a lot as they will not be isolated and will be able to minimise the risk of contracting diseases like HIV.
“The centre has an element of dignity, it will speak to students as their health and safety is being prioritised because they are at a high risk of being sick. The centre will educate and prepare the junior medical practitioners for the real world and how to work safely,” said Sifumba.
Dean of the faculty of Health Sciences Bongani Mayosi said they were excited about the “substantial benefits that will be reaped”.