Northwest simulation center-sharpens clinical and communication skills for individuals and teams.

Many authorities have suggested that some variant of team training is likely to reduce human error in operating rooms, Emergency Departments, resuscitation teams and other settings within health care-where human interaction is common, and where breakdowns in communication and teamwork can have critical consequences. The Kaiser Sunnyside Medical Center Regional Simulation Center achieves this end. In particular, simulation prepares people for error-prone, high-risk, or unusual situations. Here, we will cite several scenarios and two actual protocols; five principles for managing critical events; results (2006 People Pulse favorability, 2007-2008 postsimulation survey favorability); Kaiser Permanente Northwest departments trained; strategic initiatives supported including service internalization; collaboration with local and regional community programs; and process transferability.