USA-CN opens first virtual lab in Panay

The first of its kind in the island of Panay, the Virtual Laboratory in the College of Nursing commenced its operations on 11 January 2010. The initiative to construct a Virtual Laboratory was brought about by the college’s adoption of a new B.S. in Nursing curriculum embodied under Memorandum Order #14 of the Commission on Higher Education.Article VI, Section 13.5 clearly states that “higher education institutions are encouraged to put up virtual skills laboratory to supplement and complement the related learning experiences prior to actual experience.”

Thus, the College of Nursing, in partnership with Healthcare Advantage Institute (HCAI), builta Virtual Laboratory utilizing NAL B and C at the Gamboa Hall.The curricula of the courses offered by HCAI are based on the Joint Commission International (JCI) standards. JCI is a subsidiary of Joint Commission Accreditation of Hospitals Organization (JCAHO) which is renowned globally in the field of healthcare delivery accreditation. With this upgrade, the students enrolled in the college are assured to receive laboratory skills of international standards.

This is significantly advantageous in the preparation of students in the clinical setting and during the provision of concrete methods and processes in client care.

Furthermore, this will bridge the gap between the academe and the hospital industry by enhancing the students’ skills in manipulating modern equipment. Some of the equipment to be used in this facility are: Geri Advanced Manikin, BiphasicDefibrillator with ECG monitor, Infusion and Syringe Pump, Electronic Ventilator, Electric Bed with remote control, Sheridan Flex – C-Pap System, ECG, Adult and Pedia radio transparent electrodes, and Feeding Tube Machine. The curriculum design, aside from being based on JCI standards, is also taught in a manner adopted in the United States. This would cultivate a paradigm shift in the nursing mentality from being passive to assertive.
A process of acculturation will also be ascertained, helping the students improve their learning curve. The courses offered were divided into three categories to guarantee proper acceleration of learning. The building- block courses contain basic documentation and basic life support. Basic Skills level include Intensive Care Unit and Maternal and Child Nursing. Advanced Skills have Telemetry, Intensive Physical Assessment, and Pediatric and Neonatal Advanced Cardiac Life Support. These are just a few of the lessons that will be taught CN opens first to the nursing students at different levels of their academic life.

This innovation in nursing education was made possible through the leadership of College Dean Sofia Cosette Monteblanco, with the support of University administrators. Indubitably, this Virtual Laboratory has proven that the college can offer quality nursing education at par with international standards and can produce globally competitive nurses.