On June 24, the UAB Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) collaborated with OIPS to hold a simulation experience at the Volker Hall Sandbox. The session will be repeated on July 1. In total, 74 undergraduate learners with interests in medicine, dentistry, optometry and physical therapy careers will participate. We utilized the high-fidelity mannequins to gain exposure to the basics of simulation and learning to work together in an interprofessional environment. Learners participated in simulations to learn how to manage acute anaphylaxis reactions and seizures in a non-healthcare setting. Following debriefing, the learners were presented with a mini-lecture to highlight the basic science behind the scenario. Highlights and common themes of the experience included the importance of communication and teamwork in healthcare and the value of debriefing. Thanks to Dr. Chrystal Rutledge, Dr. Kelia Williams and Amanda Gargus who facilitated the sessions. Also Teldra McCord, and OIPS who helped set up and provided technical and logistical support throughout.

Running concurrently, led by Andres Viles, the learners also participated in the Deep South Biosafety Worker Training Program which was supported by a grant awarded to Drs. White and McCormick. In this procedural simulation the learners were taught how to protect themselves in the event of a potential exposure to highly infectious material. Mr. Viles was assisted by Elena Kidd.

The SHPEP students who have participated thus far rated their experience most highly and were very positive about both these opportunities.