New Simulation Suite opens at Daisy Hill Hospital

Healthcare professionals have taken part in the first major training event held in the new Simulation Suite at Daisy Hill Hospital in Newry, helping teams prepare for rare but serious medical emergencies and deliver safe, high-quality patient care. The facility, located beside the Emergency Department in the former Physiotherapy Gym, is the first dedicated simulation training space at the hospital.

The event formed part of the HALO (High Acuity, Low Occurrence) programme, which combines lectures and practical simulation exercises to help staff develop the skills needed to respond to emergency situations they may encounter only infrequently. Dr Ankit Singhania, Senior Clinical Fellow in the Emergency Department at Daisy Hill Hospital, developed bespoke simulation materials for the programme, including anatomical models such as eyes and placentas, to support hands-on learning.The suite provides a realistic environment where multidisciplinary teams can strengthen clinical skills, communication and decision-making.

Dr Brian McMaster, Emergency Medical Consultant and Trust SIM Lead for International Medical Recruitment, said the HALO programme helps staff build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to manage rare but serious emergencies safely and effectively. He said: "Through simulation-based training, teams can practise these scenarios in a realistic environment and be better prepared should they arise in clinical practice. It was a privilege to host the first major educational event in the new Simulation Suite and to see staff making full use of the facility to develop their skills and confidence in a realistic learning environment."

Debbie Murnin, Senior ED Sister and Clinical Educator, said: "We know that when teams train together, they perform better together. It was fantastic to see a multidisciplinary approach throughout the training day, helping staff strengthen teamwork and deliver better patient care."

Melissa King, ST3 in Emergency Medicine at Craigavon Hospital, who attended the event, said the training helped reinforce key knowledge and increased her confidence in responding to these situations should they arise in the future.

Dr Stephen Austin, Trust Medical Director, described simulation-based education as a key component of modern healthcare training, providing a safe environment in which multidisciplinary teams can develop clinical skills, practise decision-making and strengthen teamwork. He said: "While the facility is a temporary solution pending the development of a permanent simulation suite, it is an important step towards providing staff with modern learning environments that support professional development and contribute to improved patient care. The new Simulation Suite supports the Trust's ambition to be a learning organisation, offering modern training opportunities that help staff grow professionally and continue delivering excellent care for patients."

The Medical Education Team plans to expand simulation training opportunities throughout Daisy Hill Hospital.