Innovative Education

The College of Veterinary Medicine has become the first in the nation with an accredited simulation training program developed for and devoted to veterinary care.

In the WSU Clinical Simulation Center, veterinary students use medical models and sophisticated equipment, like the endoscope, to practice their diagnostic and treatment skills before they work with live patients.

In a large room filled with a half dozen tables, groups of students are following what might appear to be sewing instructions with stich names such as “cruciate” and “simple interrupted.” At the top of the sheet it reads: Practice Made Perfect. For the WSU veterinary students who are actually learning basic surgical suturing skills, this kind of practice gives them the confidence they need to perform surgeries later in the program.

After giving a test to third-year DVM students in her small animal medicine class, associate professor Lynne Nelson made a startling discovery.

“Here’s what I’ll do,” said long-time client John Vanderhorn to the student working in a veterinary clinic. The doctor was out of the office for a few minutes and Mr. Vanderhorn needed medicine for his cow. But the doctor had said nothing about it to the student. “Since the doc didn’t leave a note, I’ll just go back there and get the medicine myself,” said Mr. Vanderhorn. “That way you won’t be responsible. I’ll even sign something.”

In a calm voice, Angela*, who is really a second year WSU veterinary student, says she will look again for a note. She then comes out of the room to consult with her small group of classmates and veterinarian coach as the simulation goes into a time out to give the student a chance to regroup and refocus.