Once a week, residents from each class (PGY-1 through CA-3) participate in a full academic day in the Clinical Skills Education and Testing Center. This structure allows each resident to complete a minimum of 3–4 high-fidelity simulation experiences annually.
These anesthesiology-focused simulations are designed to prepare residents for intraoperative emergencies, while also strengthening skills in communication with patients, family members, and interdisciplinary colleagues. Scenarios incorporate quality improvement and patient safety principles, including participation in a Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and simulated Quality Improvement (QI) project presentations.
Anesthesia-Specific Simulation Training
Our simulation curriculum is designed to prepare residents for the full range of anesthetic care, including rare but critical intraoperative emergencies. These scenario-based exercises allow residents to practice clinical decision-making, crisis management skills, and technical skills in a safe learning environment while also preparing them for the American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA) Part 2 Applied Examination.
Airway Management and Difficult Airway Scenarios
Residents practice advanced airway management techniques using high-fidelity simulators, including difficult mask ventilation, unexpected difficult intubation, and airway obstruction. These simulations reinforce airway algorithms and allow residents to develop confidence with advanced airway devices and rescue techniques.
Malignant Hyperthermia Crisis Management
This high-acuity simulation teaches residents to recognize early signs of malignant hyperthermia and rapidly initiate life-saving treatment. Residents practice coordinated team responses, proper dantrolene administration, and crisis management protocols in a time-sensitive environment.
Intraoperative Cardiac Arrest
Residents participate in simulated operating room cardiac arrest scenarios, practicing advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS) within the unique environment of the OR. These exercises emphasize rapid diagnosis of reversible causes, coordinated team communication, and effective leadership during resuscitation.
Hemodynamic Instability and Shock
Simulation scenarios challenge residents to diagnose and treat sudden hemodynamic changes during surgery. Residents manage conditions such as hemorrhage, anaphylaxis, and septic shock while developing skills in vasoactive medication use, fluid management, and invasive monitoring interpretation.
Pediatric Anesthesia Emergencies
Using pediatric and neonatal simulators, residents learn to manage airway challenges, respiratory compromise, and cardiovascular instability in infants and children. These sessions focus on age-specific physiology, medication dosing, and the unique considerations of pediatric anesthetic care.
Obstetric Anesthesia Emergencies
Residents practice managing obstetric crises such as emergent cesarean delivery, high spinal anesthesia, and maternal hemorrhage. These simulations emphasize rapid assessment, multidisciplinary coordination, and safe anesthetic management for both mother and fetus.
Ultrasound and Regional Anesthesia Training
Simulation technology allows residents to develop proficiency in ultrasound-guided procedures and regional anesthesia techniques before performing them on patients. These sessions help residents refine needle guidance, anatomical recognition, and safe block placement.