LIVONIA, MICH. – In a thrilling simulation designed to mimic the chaos of a real-world disaster, Madonna University's senior community nursing class took part in an intense exercise that put their skills to the test. The disaster simulation provided students first-hand experience in responding to a crisis.
The scenario depicted the mayhem of a bomb detonating with victims scattered around the simulated disaster site in Madonna's Administration Building. The goal of the exercise was for the nursing students to activate a disaster management plan, perform triage, and tag victims. The scene was hauntingly realistic, with bloody casualties, homeless individuals wandering, the scent of smoke, and a pregnant woman in distress. As the students navigated the chaos, they were provided valuable insights into disaster response, teamwork, and decision-making under pressure.
Nursing student Hannah Chrzanowski, one of the triage nurses, shared her thoughts on the experience. "I think the simulation went well; it was a good learning experience. I felt the chaos and the pressure to act quickly. It was 100 percent beneficial to the nursing program," she said. Damon Montroy, senior nursing student said he learned "how to be quick-thinking, how to triage fast, and how to do the most good for the most amount of people."
The commitment of Madonna's nursing faculty to providing a realistic and challenging educational experience was evident, as nursing students were pushed beyond their comfort zones to develop the resilience and skills needed in the field. The simulation showcased the University's innovative approach, ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also well-prepared to excel in the dynamic world of healthcare.
