New Mannequins Enhance Practical Training for Student Nurses

Student nurses are set to benefit from new training mannequins, which are expected to play a “vital role in improving the hands-on learning experience.” Manx Care announced that these “state-of-the-art” Juno Manikins will enable students “to practise essential clinical skills in a safe, realistic environment.” The Henry Bloom Noble Healthcare Trust supplied the funding for these training aids, aiming to enhance the training of nurses on the island. Liz Hignett, education lead at Keyll Darree School of Health, stated that the mannequins would “significantly enhance” the existing program and assist in helping “cultivate our next generation of nursing professionals.” These contemporary, interactive training tools feature reservoir capabilities that release fluid during intravenous procedures or oedema drainage. Furthermore, the mannequins can be adapted for both male and female anatomy, allowing for practice in skills such as taking pulses, drawing blood, catheterisation, and stoma care. This contribution aligns with Manx Care’s ongoing initiative to enhance the recruitment and training of nurses within the island, which includes the introduction of a bachelor of nursing degree programme in October. Manx Care also announced that aspiring nursing students will have the opportunity to view the mannequins and the Keyll Darree facilities during its nursing open evening, scheduled for 18:00 GMT on 05 December. Malcolm Clague, chairman of the Trust, highlighted the significant advantages of pursuing nursing studies on the island. He stated, “The students are offered a bursary here, don’t have to get in debt or leave friends and family behind.” Clague further emphasized, “Encouraging on-island education is the key to retaining a skilled workforce in years to come.”