Connecticut nurses use virtual reality to sharpen clinical skills

A virtual reality program for new inpatient nurses — whether they’re returning to bedside care or changing specialties — is enhancing patient safety and quality of care at Danbury Hospital in Connecticut, part of Nuvance Health. This VR program is being used for scenario-based simulation, helping nurses strengthen their ability to make clinical decisions, build their skills and confidence, and facilitate and even accelerate orientation time.

“Simulation is the safest and most effective way to strengthen the skills nurses need to provide high-quality care, but resources and logistical constraints can limit the use of in-person sim,” said John Leopold, network director of simulation for Nuvance Health. “Simulation in VR helps overcome some of these hurdles, making quality simulation more accessible … engaging and fun.”

“Fully immersive virtual reality simulation” is being piloted at Danbury Hospital and another Nuvance Health hospital, with plans to eventually roll out at other health system sites.

Danbury Hospital’s Harold A. Spratt Center for Simulation and Clinical Learning is a state-of-the-art facility offering programs and curricula that prioritize interprofessional care, teamwork and clinical skill. The center has three primary simulation labs replicating an intensive care room; an inpatient general medical surgical room; and a labor and delivery/intensive care room. Each lab has all the necessary equipment to help health care professionals master clinical skills and techniques and hone best practices.

Read more about the virtual reality program for nurses and the Harold A. Spratt Center for Simulation and Clinical Learning at Danbury Hospital.