The American University of Kurdistan’s Simulation Conference a Resounding Success

The American University of Kurdistan’s (AUK) College of Nursing recently held its Inaugural Simulation Conference, and it was a resounding success. The conference spanned two days and attracted healthcare professionals, researchers, educators, policymakers, and students from the region to exchange insights on the latest methodologies and advancements in healthcare simulation. In attendance on the second day were distinguished guests and dignitaries including Kurdistan Regional Government Minister of Health Dr. Saman Hussein Mohammed Barzinji and Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Dr. Abdulfattah Abdulrazzaq Mahmood. Their keynote remarks highlighted the AUK College of Nursing’s commitment to providing exceptional healthcare education and training in the region.

The conference featured an impressive lineup of international and local keynote speakers, panelists, and presenters who shared their wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of healthcare simulation. Participants were treated to insightful discussions and thought-provoking presentations that showcased cutting-edge techniques and innovations in healthcare simulation. From industry experts to emerging thought leaders, the conference provided a unique opportunity for attendees to gain valuable knowledge and understanding of how simulation-based training can improve patient safety, enhance clinical skills, and promote innovation in healthcare.

Dr. Jervy Bernardino, the Conference Chair and Chief Nursing Administrator at AUK, remarked, “The exceptional level of participation and engagement from healthcare professionals and students, as well as the presentations showcasing evidence-based practice in healthcare simulation, made this conference a tremendous success.” He added, “We are proud to have created a platform that fosters knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and innovation among healthcare experts. We look forward to hosting more conferences like this in the future and continuing to advance the field of healthcare simulation for the benefit of students, patients, and healthcare professionals alike.”
Beyond the outstanding educational content, the conference also offered a unique and invigorating opportunity for attendees to connect and collaborate with like-minded professionals in the field of simulation. The sense of community and shared purpose was evident, as attendees from diverse countries and professional backgrounds came together to exchange ideas, share best practices, and forge new partnerships. The conference provided a platform for participants to learn from each other, challenge assumptions, and spark new insights that will help to drive healthcare innovation forward. Whether in the speaker sessions, the networking events, or the panel discussions, there was an ever-present sense of shared purpose and passion. The conference was a testament to the transformative potential of healthcare simulation and served as a powerful reminder that when healthcare professionals come together to collaborate and innovate, great things can be achieved.

One of the most exciting features of the conference was the exhibition of the latest simulation technologies and equipment from leading global medical manufacturers and vendors. Clever Scientific, the conference partner, brought together some of the most innovative companies in the industry, such as NASCO Healthcare, MVR Technologies, Sectra, ADInstruments, Worldpoint, and Leader Healthcare, to showcase their cutting-edge products and patient simulators. The exhibition area was a hub of activity and excitement, as participants tested out these advanced technologies and engaged in interactive demonstrations. From virtual reality to emergency response training equipment, the wide variety of offerings impressed attendees and inspired them to explore new ways of incorporating simulation into their healthcare practices.

The panel discussions on both days, moderated by Dr. Nezar Ismet Taib, former Director General of Health in Duhok, had stimulating and insightful discussions dedicated to “Beyond the Simulator: How to Effectively Integrate Simulation-Based Learning into Clinical Practice” and “Simulating Success: The Critical Role of Policy Makers in Integrating Simulation-Based Learning into Healthcare Training and Education.” The panelists provided valuable advice on integrating simulation into clinical practice and policymaking. The attendees’ active participation also highlighted the importance of knowledge-sharing in the healthcare community and the value of collaboration in addressing the challenges of healthcare education and training. The tangible contributions from all involved made the panel discussions a highlight of the conference.

Another highlight was the session on medical moulage. This hands-on workshop allowed attendees to learn and practice the art of creating realistic wounds and injuries for medical simulation training, using a range of materials and techniques. Led by Mr. Adrianne Gonzaga, Clinical Education Manager of Leader Healthcare Group, the workshop provided a rare opportunity to learn from the best in the field. Participants learned how to create a range of injuries, from simple abrasions to complex burns and fractures, and were able to experiment with different materials, tools, and techniques to achieve the desired effect. But the workshop wasn’t just about creating realistic wounds. It was also an opportunity for attendees to delve deeper into the principles of medical simulation, and to understand how realistic simulation training can improve clinical skills and enhance patient safety. By learning the art of medical moulage, participants gained valuable insights into the importance of realism and authenticity in simulation.

The conference received high praise from its attendees, including Dr. Kara Platt, Chair of the Nursing Department at Frostburg State University, who was also one of the keynote speakers. Dr. Platt commented, “I am highly impressed with how this conference is organized and the quality of the speakers that are here.” Dr. Radhwan Ibrahim, Dean of the College of Nursing at Ninevah University, expressed confidence that the knowledge and skills gained from the conference would benefit nursing practice and improve patient care.
The success of the Inaugural Simulation Conference at the American University of Kurdistan (AUK) was a result of the tireless efforts of the organizing committee, who worked for months to bring the conference to fruition. Students in the College of Nursing also played a role in the event’s success, and their participation provided them with a valuable opportunity to learn and expand their knowledge of healthcare simulation as well as program management.

As the first Simulation Conference at AUK drew to a close, the impact of the event continued to resonate with all those who participated. The success of this conference marks the beginning of a transformative movement towards innovative and effective healthcare education and clinical practices, with the potential to improve patient care not only in the local community but across the region. The conference has sparked a passion in the attending healthcare professionals who continually strive for excellence in their practice and push the boundaries of what is possible in simulation-based education. The event may have ended, but the inspiration and motivation will continue to drive progress and advancements in healthcare simulation and better prepare nursing students for the profession.