Hands-on learning. realistic scenarios. skill mastery.

At Carson-Newman University, we believe that experiential learning is essential to developing confident, competent, and safe nurse anesthetists. That’s why we’ve made a significant investment in building a state-of-the-art simulation and skills laboratory dedicated specifically to anesthesia education.

PURPOSE-BUILT FOR ANeSTHESIA TRAINING

Located on the third floor of the Drama and Ted Russell Center, the Nurse Anesthesiology Simulation Suite provides students with access to realistic, high-fidelity learning environments that replicate the complexity of modern surgical and critical care settings.

This newly-constructed simulation space serves as a cornerstone of our curriculum, allowing residents to bridge classroom instruction with hands-on practice in a controlled, supportive environment.

TECHNOLOGY & EQUIPMENT

Our simulation lab is equipped with advanced resources designed for anesthesia-specific training, including:

  • CAE Healthcare Human Patient Simulators (CAE HPS) – High-fidelity manikins capable of simulating a wide range of physiologic and pharmacologic responses

  • Dedicated Operating Room Suites with fully functional anesthesia machines, airway management stations, and monitoring systems

  • Pediatric and neonatal simulation stations

  • Task trainers for peripheral nerve blocks, airway devices, IV insertion, and regional anesthesia techniques

  • Audio-visual debriefing systems to support reflection, feedback, and formative assessment

A FOUNDATION FOR SAFE CLINICAL PRACTICE

Simulation is fully integrated into the Nurse Anesthesiology curriculum from the first semester and continues throughout the program. Students engage in:

  • Crisis management and emergency preparedness scenarios

  • Team-based communication and interprofessional collaboration

  • Advanced airway management

  • Regional and neuraxial block techniques

  • Equipment troubleshooting and pharmacologic response training

Each simulation experience is carefully structured to reinforce didactic content, sharpen psychomotor skills, and improve decision-making under pressure—preparing students for the dynamic realities of clinical practice. 

Simulation at Carson-Newman is more than a training tool—it’s a transformative learning experience that shapes the way our residents approach patient care, safety, and professional excellence.