NIHC Brings Engaging Interprofessional Simulation to PNWU
On Friday, November 14, the Northwest Interprofessional Healthcare Collaborative (NIHC) hosted Friday Night at the ER. An immersive, team-based learning experience, the simulation event challenged students to collaborate under pressure, think strategically, and navigate the complexities of real-world healthcare systems.
“Friday Night at the ER is a dynamic, hands-on simulation that brings together students from various health professions for an immersive, team-based learning experience,” explained Dorian Gwynn, NIHC Administrative Coordinator.
“Participants learn with, from, and about one another as they experience the realities of interdisciplinary collaboration and the intricacies of decision-making in healthcare systems.”
Over the course of a simulated 24-hour period, participating students step into the role of hospital department managers, making rapid decisions about patient flow, resource allocation, staffing, and unexpected challenges.
The goal: keep the hospital running smoothly during one of the busiest nights imaginable.
The event brought together learners from multiple health sciences PNWU programs – including Dental Medicine, Occupational Therapy, and the College of Osteopathic Medicine – to problem-solve, communicate, and make decisions as a unified hospital team.
“Success depends on effective teamwork, systems thinking, strategic decision-making, and the ability to adapt under pressure,” Gwynn said.
“It’s a powerful way for students to understand how interconnected our roles are in patient care.”
The NIHC is scheduled to host its Fridays at the ER event again on March 27, and will continue offering interprofessional simulations and learning opportunities across the academic year, with the goal of strengthening teamwork, shared understanding, and collaborative readiness among PNWU’s future healthcare providers. Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to reach out to the NIHC for registration information.
