Simulation Centers

USCB Offers State-of-the-Art Simulation Centers in Beaufort and Bluffton

Simulation is an important teaching and learning tool that helps bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world. USCB has two state-of-the-art Nursing simulation centers, in Beaufort and Bluffton.

 Our faculty are trained in simulation pedagogy and incorporate best practices, guided by the International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning (INACSL). Simulation is incorporated throughout the curriculum from the very first clinical course to the final clinical course, providing many opportunities for students to learn in a safe environment.

Beaufort Simulation Center

The Beaufort Memorial PATH Career Development Center (opened July 2024) offers high-tech, lifelike simulators and is a partnership by University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB), Beaufort County, the City of Beaufort and Beaufort Memorial Foundation.

The simulation center offers educational opportunities for USCB nursing students and the local healthcare workforce, thus addressing the effects of a national nursing shortage.

The 6,340-square foot center includes:

• Four simulation labs, each with a life-like simulation manikin. These high-tech simulators can answer simple questions, cry, turn their heads, give birth and perform other actions
• Simulated hospital rooms outfitted with the same equipment in use at the Beaufort Memorial Hospital
• Two debrief rooms
• Two large classrooms

Location

990 Ribaut Road, Second Floor, Beaufort, SC 29902

Background and Funding

BMH and USCB leaders and local state officials began planning for the education center in 2021 amid concerns about nursing shortages following the pandemic. Initial funding came in 2022, when Beaufort County and USCB provided $500,000 each for construction costs. The USCB funding was part of $1 million Congressionally Directed Spending award facilitated by Senator Lindsey Graham.

Beaufort City Council approved budget amendments to its budget in 2023 and 2024, allocating $1.5 million from a South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control grant and $1 million from the State of South Carolina’s Fiscal Year 2024 General Appropriations Act, of which $1 million went toward construction costs.

Take a Look at the Beaufort Simulation Center

 

Bluffton Simulation Center

At USCB's simulation center on the Bluffton Campus, Nursing students receive instruction from faculty and practice their clinical skills on life-like manakins.  They learn to exercise their best clinical judgment in high-stress situations and are assessed on competencies.

The center includes:

• Three simulation labs, each equipped with real hospital equipment and AI-powered manakins that simulate the responses of live patients.

• Real hospital equipment

• A debrief room

Location

Sci Tech Building Room XXX. One University Boulevard, Bluffton, SC, 29910

 

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