The quality of medical education is one of the key factors determining the standard of healthcare provided to the population. At the same time, modern medical education faces numerous challenges, including material and technical, ethical and legal constraints. Medical students acquire a thorough theoretical knowledge base; however, opportunities to develop practical skills directly at the patient’s bedside are often limited by the ethical principles governing doctor–patient interactions.

Modern simulation centres help address this challenge by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The Simulation-Based Learning and Assessment Centre established at the Institute gives students the opportunity to practise clinical skills in conditions that closely resemble real-life situations, using high-tech mannequins and simulators. This enables future doctors to begin working with real patients having already developed and practised essential professional competencies.

Centre Structure and Facilities

Training at the Centre is organised in stages:

Mastering basic medical procedures, including:
1. administering injections (intravenous, intramuscular and subcutaneous);
2. wound care and dressing application;
3. urinary catheterisation and insertion of a gastric tube.
Developing specialised skills in accordance with the chosen field of study:
1. Surgery: from tying surgical knots and suturing wounds to practising laparoscopic and endoscopic techniques.
2. Obstetrics and Gynaecology: from vaginal examinations and pelvic measurements to conducting childbirth, including different foetal presentations.
3. Emergency Medicine: protocols for providing emergency care in cases of polytrauma, cardiac arrest and acute critical conditions.
Practising teamwork in emergency situations, helping students develop stress resilience and effective communication skills under time pressure.

Benefits of Simulation-Based Learning

A safe learning environment – students can repeat procedures as many times as necessary to master the required skills.
Realistic clinical scenarios – achieved through high-tech simulators and innovative teaching methods.
Development of professional confidence – graduates enter clinical practice better prepared to work with real patients.
Development of teamwork skills – students learn to work in multidisciplinary teams and make rapid decisions in situations involving a high level of responsibility.

The Simulation-Based Learning and Assessment Centre plays an important role in training highly qualified healthcare professionals who are prepared to meet the challenges of modern clinical practice.

Students of the Ukrainian Medical University and Public Health have the opportunity to practise first aid skills using the appropriate mannequins at the Simulation Centre. The Centre regularly hosts masterclasses not only for students but also for prospective students.

In addition, future doctors have the opportunity to undertake practical training during their first three years of study at Academician Loskutov’s MedIn Ua Medical Centre, where they can acquire practical surgical skills in a real clinical setting.

First-Year Student Handbook