Hospital Medicine Simulation

The Division of Hospital Medicine operates a simulation laboratory affiliated with Northwestern Simulation. Hospital Medicine Simulation was created to further enhance medical education and patient safety within the Department of Medicine. We use simulation-based mastery learning (SBML) to train nurses, residents, fellows and attendings to high standards in bedside procedure and communication skills. Hospitalists within our division must meet mastery standards in Hospital Medicine Simulation to obtain hospital privileges in bedside procedures.  

Selected Publications

Members of our division have led research demonstrating the benefit of simulation-based mastery learning to improvements in patient care and return on investment.

1. Wilcox JE, Harap RS, Stosor V, et al. Effect of Ventricular Assist Device Self-care Simulation-based Mastery Learning on Driveline Exit Site Infections: A Pilot Study. J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2022 May-June; 37(3): 289-295.
2. Amick AE, Feinsmith SE, Sell J, et al. Ultrasound-Guided Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Insertion Training Reduces Use of Midline Catheters in Hospitalized Patients With Difficult Intravenous Access. J Patient Saf. 2022 Apr 1; 18(3):e697-e703.
3. Barsuk JH, Cohen ER, Williams MV, et al. Simulation-Based Mastery Learning for Thoracentesis Skills Improves Patient Outcomes: A Randomized Trial. Acad Med. 2018;93(5):729-735.
4. Schwab B, Teitelbaum EN, Barsuk JH, Soper NJ, Hungness ES. Single-stage laparoscopic management of choledocholithiasis: An analysis after implementation of a mastery learning resident curriculum. Surgery. 2018;163(3):503-508.
5. Barsuk JH, Cohen ER, Potts S, et al. Dissemination of a simulation-based mastery learning intervention reduces central line-associated bloodstream infections. BMJ Qual Saf. 2014;23(9):749-756.
6. Barsuk JH, Cohen ER, Feinglass J, et al. Cost savings of performing paracentesis procedures at the bedside after simulation-based education. Simul Healthc. 2014;9(5):312-318.
7. Barsuk JH, Cohen ER, Feinglass J, McGaghie WC, Wayne DB. Clinical outcomes after bedside and interventional radiology paracentesis procedures. The American journal of medicine. 2013;126(4):349-356.
8. Cohen ER, Feinglass J, Barsuk JH, et al. Cost savings from reduced catheter-related bloodstream infection after simulation-based education for residents in a medical intensive care unit. Simul Healthc. 2010;5(2):98-102.
9. Barsuk JH, Cohen ER, Feinglass J, McGaghie WC, Wayne DB. Use of simulation-based education to reduce catheter-related bloodstream infections. Arch Intern Med. 2009;169(15):1420-1423.
10. Barsuk JH, McGaghie WC, Cohen ER, O'Leary KJ, Wayne DB. Simulation-based mastery learning reduces complications during central venous catheter insertion in a medical intensive care unit. Crit Care Med. 2009;37(10):2697-2701.