The Bert Bradford Division of Health Sciences at the University of Charleston use state-of-the-art equipment and technology. Facilities such as the Assessment Lab and Skills Lab provide students with opportunities to practice their healthcare skills in a low-stress, simulated environment before caring for real patients.
Assessment Lab
The Assessment Lab, complete with 10 assessment tables and wall-mounted equipment, accurately simulates a clinical assessment environment.
Students hone their assessment skills using up-to-date equipment to assess blood pressure, reflexes, heart and lung sounds, hydration status, visual acuity, and much more.
Skills Lab
The Skills Lab has 7 individual units which simulate the hospital environment. There is also a nurse's station with sample medical charts, reference books, and computers.
Practice makes perfect when learning complex healthcare skills, and practicing in the lab gives UC students confidence when using their skills in real clinical settings. Students learn and practice their skills in class and independently, familiarizing themselves with the current durable and disposable medical equipment.
Special healthcare practice Manikins stand in for patients, because mistakes can be part of the initial learning process. Students also use computer-assisted instruction to prepare for clinical skills and enhance their critical thinking abilities. Opportunities for students to practice documentation skills in the lab closely simulate a real clinical experience.
