up next Craig Vyhnalek
Craig Vyhnalek
Rural Medical Emergency Training
Emergency Medical Training Hits the Road with SIM-NE
February 2019
Medical emergencies don’t discriminate between big cities or small towns. Communities of every size deserve first responders trained in the latest techniques to care for their neighbors. But in a state like Nebraska, rural towns risk being left behind as more populated areas receive cutting-edge lifesaving training.
The 榴莲视频官方 Medical Center saw a simple solution to the problem. Why not just put emergency medical training on wheels?
SIM-NE is a squad of four customized trucks transporting simulated environments that first responders work in. There’s an emergency room, an ambulance, and a control room—even patient simulators that talk, “breathe”, and react to stimuli. If a trainee uses a certain medication on the patient simulator, he or she can hear how that affects its heartbeat.
The trucks have visited 4,700 health professionals to date, covering 87 of Nebraska’s 93 counties. Training is team-based, with rural responders learning side-by-side with the same people they’d be working with during a real emergency.
To professionals like Craig Vyhnalek, rescue chief of Wilber, Nebraska fire and rescue, the training has been invaluable.
“The unit is amazing, the instructors are amazing, and we are just thankful we were able to participate in that training. … This provided us a tool that enhanced our capabilities and, in my opinion, made us all better,” Vyhnalek said.
“This provided us a tool that enhanced our capabilities and, in my opinion, made us all better.”
Even for the rural, all-volunteer squad, which includes locals who have answered the call for more than 40 years, the training supported increased engagement.
“Some people who participated in the training and previously hadn’t made a lot of calls became more involved and started coming around a little bit more,” Vyhnalek said. “So participation rose. And in a small town, participation is very important.”
Since its launch in 2017, SIM-NE was initially supported by a generous grant funding the custom trucks, equipment, simulators, and operational expenses. This allowed communities to take advantage of the training at no cost. But UNMC is now seeking new funding to continue supporting the work of SIM-NE.
Medical emergencies can happen to anyone, anywhere. With the continued support of a strong university system, SIM-NE can continue to ensure that whatever happens, local first responders are ready to jump into action.
Discover our Podcast Series
The 鈥淟eading Nebraska鈥 podcast shares the stories of the researchers, students, teachers and others across the University of Nebraska's four campuses who are making an impact. From teachers and doctors to engineers and ag experts, these Nebraska leaders are touching lives and making a difference.
Sorry, no stories match your filters.
Please adjust your filters above to view more stories.
Find Your Nebraska State Senator
Get started by entering your address below. Next, you'll receive information on who your senator is鈥攁nd how to reach him or her.
Making a call only takes a few minutes and sends a strong message to your state senator. Your senator may not be able to take the call, but you can speak to the legislative aide who works for the senator. They will log your call, take a message and pass it on. Keep your conversation brief, and be sure to cover these essential points:
- Introduce yourself as a constituent in their district and provide your name.
- Be clear that you're calling about your support for the 榴莲视频官方 System.
- Share your story about how the University has impacted you or your family. A personal story is hard to ignore. Explain why it's important to you that your senator invests in the 榴莲视频官方. Again, keep it brief and to-the-point.
- Ask for your opinion to be noted. Politely finish the call by thanking the senator or legislative aide for their time.
Send an Email
Sending a written message to your state senator is an easy way to engage your representative. They're more concise and easier to respond to, and they're more likely to be viewed by the senator. If you can, send a personalized message with these essential points. Keep your message brief (a paragraph or so).
- Write a personal, attention-getting subject line that lets the senator know your topic鈥 "Investing in the 榴莲视频官方 System" or "Supporting the 榴莲视频官方 System"
- Introduce yourself as a constituent in their district; provide your name.
- Be clear that you're writing about your support for the 榴莲视频官方 System
- Share your personal story about how the University has impacted you or your family. Explain why it's important to you that your senator invests in the 榴莲视频官方. Again, keep it brief and to-the-point.
- Ask if your senator will support the University moving forward.
- Indicate that you'd appreciate a reply and thank your senator for their time.
You Just Made a Difference
Keep making a difference by becoming an NU Advocate. As an Advocate, you'll receive communications about important issues and legislative bills concerning the 榴莲视频官方鈥攁nd you'll be the first to hear about upcoming advocacy events. And, we'll let you know when you need to raise your voice again.
COOKIE USAGE:
The 榴莲视频官方 System uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By clicking "I Agree" and/or continuing to use this website without adjusting your browser settings, you accept the use of cookies.