HCAs acquire work experience in a simulated hospital with manikins at the University of Bedfordshire

Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) are important members of the care team. This article looks at how experience in a simulated hospital can enhance their skills. This is achieved in a safe environment where the only consequence of a mistake is learning. The simulated hospital at the University of Bedfordshire is an immersive and fully authentic learning experience. It encapsulates a range of clinical areas that allows HCAs and others to work shifts caring for a range of interactive patients. Through focusing on the First Step Competence Checklist developed by the RCN, the simulated hospital allows HCAs to develop their confidence and competence in their caring skills, while also becoming familiar with the totality of the healthcare environment.