Augustana University is excited to announce that its nursing program has been awarded a federal grant (No. 05-79-06256) to purchase nearly $440,000 in equipment and supplies for simulation education. The grant is provided by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) through the Economic Adjustment Assistance Program.
As Augustana looks to increase enrollment in the Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) program and with the launch of the graduate nursing program — which includes two Master of Science in nursing (MSN) tracks and two post-master’s certificate program tracks — the university was in need of funding for equipment. The federal funds will help support replacing aging equipment and the purchase of additional simulation manikins and laboratory equipment — necessary for creating the best possible hands-on learning experiences for students.
“Use of simulation equipment and task trainers allows students to practice skills in a safe setting — refining technique and obtaining faculty feedback to achieve competency before using those skills in a clinical setting,” said Dr. Lynn White, program director of nursing. “Nursing students who take part in health care education programs that utilize simulation perform fewer medical errors in clinical settings and are better able to develop their critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills.”
The EDA’s investment will allow Augustana to help address the region’s nursing shortage — exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and expected to increase with the aging population of the current workforce. With simulation education part of the nursing curriculum at the university for more than 15 years, Augustana Nursing Program faculty are already trained and well-versed in using this technology, and have a track record of success in preparing its students for success.
The upgraded and new equipment is expected to be in place by the fall of 2023.