From Classroom to Combat: CSI Leads High-Fidelity Trauma Simulations for Ranger Medics
The Center for Simulation and Innovation recently partnered with Georgia Emergency Department Services (GEDS), Trauma Services, and Regional EMS personnel to deliver simulation-based education for the 5th Army Rangers’ medics from Camp Merrill.
The training day began with a didactic session led by Dr. Ball, who presented on critical trauma care concepts tailored for austere and combat environments. Following the classroom education, the Army Ranger medics transitioned into hands-on training that featured two high-fidelity, multi-trauma simulation scenarios designed to test clinical judgment, teamwork, and rapid response in high-pressure situations.
In addition to the simulations, medics rotated through procedure stations focused on airway, breathing, and circulation interventions. Skills practiced included airway management, cricothyrotomy, needle decompression, chest tube placement, ventilator use, hemorrhage control, IV/IO access, and fluid resuscitation techniques.
This collaborative training effort underscores the importance of cross-agency partnerships in preparing military medics for the realities of field care and ensuring optimal outcomes in life-threatening scenarios.
Celebrating a Year of Innovation and Impact: EM Residents Shine in Simulation Education
As the residency year draws to a close, we take a moment to recognize and celebrate the exceptional contributions of our Emergency Medicine residents—Dr. Harmon, Dr. Harvath, Dr. Joshi, Dr. Oderinde, Dr. Leeson, and Dr. Gonzalez—who participated in this year’s simulation elective.
Throughout the year, these residents demonstrated unwavering dedication, creativity, and courage. From leading a high-stakes trauma simulation in front of hundreds of high school students to raise awareness about distracted driving, to performing live on stage at an OB conference, their commitment to education and outreach was nothing short of inspiring.
Their efforts extended beyond the classroom. They shared their knowledge with fellow residency programs and even trained Army Rangers, showcasing the power of simulation in preparing clinicians for real-world challenges. Together with the simulation team, they helped launch several groundbreaking initiatives, including:
- The inaugural Sim Wars – a dynamic competition that tested clinical acumen and teamwork.
- Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) preparation support – enhancing readiness for large-scale emergencies.
- Our first-ever Escape Room challenge – blending clinical problem-solving with immersive learning.
These achievements reflect not only the residents’ clinical excellence but also their passion for teaching and innovation. Their collaboration with simulation faculty, including Sid, helped elevate the program and left a lasting impact on learners and educators alike.
As we look ahead, we invite feedback to continue refining and growing our simulation program. Thank you to each resident for your enthusiasm, leadership, and hard work. You’ve helped shape a remarkable year of learning and growth.
Dr. Samuel Dotson Receives Excellence in GME Simulation-based Learning Award
The Center for Simulation and Innovation proudly awarded Dr. Samuel Dotson, associate program director of the Psychiatry residency program, with the Excellence in GME Simulation-based Learning Award at this year’s Emergency Medicine graduation ceremony. This distinguished honor recognizes a GME resident, fellow, or faculty member who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to simulation-based education, innovation, and scholarship in support of CSI’s mission.
Dr. Dotson’s visionary leadership has transformed psychiatric training at NGHS. He pioneered monthly simulation rotations that immerse residents in complex psychiatric scenarios, enhancing clinical reasoning, communication, and patient safety. His development of a PGY-4 simulation elective and integration of evidence-based methodologies—such as cognitive load theory and deliberate practice—reflect his dedication to educational excellence. Dr. Dotson’s national recognition, including a recent presentation at the AADPRT conference, highlights his scholarly contributions and the broader impact of his work. His efforts have not only elevated the quality of psychiatric training at NGHS but have also positioned the institution as a leader in community-based simulation education. This award celebrates Dr. Dotson’s enduring commitment to innovation, patient-centered care, and the future of healthcare simulation.
Beyond the Classroom: Expanding Standardized Patient Programs Across the Healthcare Spectrum
At the 2025 Association of Standardized Patient Educators (ASPE) Conference in Montreal, Corey Hill and Nicole Beringson presented their groundbreaking work, “SPs Utilized Beyond Academia: Expanding the Reach of Simulation-Based Education.” Their presentation highlighted a comprehensive, system-wide approach to integrating Standardized Patients (SPs) across diverse healthcare training environments—extending far beyond traditional academic settings.
Hill and Beringson detailed how NGHS has successfully embedded SPs into GME residency programs, nursing education, new hire orientations, community outreach, and in situ interdisciplinary simulations. Their strategy emphasizes customization, flexibility, and continuous assessment to meet evolving training needs. By leveraging SPs in areas such as EMS education, disaster preparedness, and even high school health science enrichment, they demonstrated how simulation can enhance clinical skills, improve patient outcomes, and foster a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration. Their work represents a paradigm shift in simulation-based education, showcasing the transformative potential of SPs across the entire healthcare spectrum.
Paramedics Test Skills in Realistic Emergency Scenarios at NGHS Simulation Lab
Three paramedic teams put their clinical expertise and critical thinking abilities to the test during the annual Medic Challenge at the Northeast Georgia Health System’s Center for Simulation and Innovation Learning Lab, part of the prestigious Police and Fire Games competition. The high-stakes event featured carefully designed scenarios including pediatric trauma, adult hypothermia, and obstetric emergency with neonatal resuscitation, each requiring participants to demonstrate advanced life-saving techniques while maintaining clear communication and precision under intense pressure. The immersive simulation environment allowed experienced medical educators to evaluate the paramedics’ performance in realistic emergency situations, showcasing the vital role these training exercises play in fostering excellence, collaboration, and continued professional development among first responders in prehospital care.
Leah Everett Honored with Emergency Medicine Residency Impact Award for Excellence in Simulation Education
At the inaugural Emergency Medicine graduation ceremony held in May at The Vault in downtown Gainesville, Leah Everett, GME Simulation Educator, was honored with the Emergency Medicine Residency Impact Award. This award, presented by the Emergency Medicine faculty and residents, recognizes Leah’s exceptional dedication to enhancing resident education through simulation. Over the past three years, Leah has been a cornerstone of the residency program, consistently delivering high-quality, immersive learning experiences. She has coordinated monthly simulation sessions that challenge residents with realistic clinical scenarios, organized a full-scale mass casualty incident simulation to bolster emergency preparedness, and led the ever-popular Sim Wars competition. In addition, she has facilitated hands-on procedure trainings and meticulously planned the annual orientation for incoming interns, ensuring a smooth transition into residency. Leah’s passion for education, her innovative approach to simulation, and her unwavering support for residents have made a lasting impact on the program. The award is a well-deserved recognition of her tireless efforts and the vital role she plays in shaping the next generation of emergency physicians.
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