The new Education and Training Centre, which will feature simulation facilities and training rooms, will be situated on the entry floor level of the Front of House in the new Stage 2 building.
Nepean Hospital’s Education Training Service (ETS) refers to a comprehensive education and training service across Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD).
The Service examines the knowledge and skill requirements of the workforce and develops relevant education programs that support staff in their current roles and career pathways.
Nicole McGreal, who is the Education and Training Manager for NBMLHD, is excited at the prospect of having a new purpose-built space.
“Our new facilities in the Stage 2 building will support the Local Health District’s 7,000-person work force, ensuring we can upskill our staff as new technology arrives and models of care evolve,” says Nicole.
The simulation spaces will have 8 ward beds and 2 critical care beds, to train technical and non-technical skills from communication to advanced life support.
“The simulations spaces can also help diagnose the need for change as well as develop and test new processes that can be embedded in healthcare to improve patient outcomes.”
Nicole says the benefit of having simulation spaces means that it can connect different departments for training.
“For example, you will be able to have staff from the emergency department, theatres and the intensive care unit train together to practice responding to critical incidents in a safe and controlled environment.”
The simulation rooms will also use updated technology to create training scenarios directed from a control room.
“The new facilities will enable us to program real life scenarios for staff to respond to, such as patients undergoing a heart attack, airway obstruction and loss of consciousness."
“The simulation space is a significant improvement and gives staff a way to practice skills, assess their competence, and build their confidence, which will ultimately benefit patients,” Nicole continues.
The Education and Training Centre will also have livestreaming capabilities to increase staff access to training across the NBMLHD.
NBMLHD ETS currently offers more than 110 courses per year including a comprehensive range of both clinical and non-clinical programs such as Aboriginal Traineeships and Aboriginal Cadetships, leadership and management training, and programs that help staff transition to professional practice programs.
Nicole believes that helping staff diversify their skills and providing clear career pathways makes Nepean Hospital a more attractive place to work.
“Having a great education and training service at Nepean Hospital shows staff that they are valued, which improves workplace culture and helps the NBMLHD to attract and retain our valuable health professionals,” says Nicole.
Construction on the new Stage 2 building is making good progress and will continue throughout 2025.
