OMAHA, Neb. – A new program at Methodist Hospital is helping staff and patients learn about medical symptoms and treatments in an engaging way.
This innovative approach features two high-tech manikins named Harry and Sally who can move, talk, and even simulate crying.
Found inside the Latacha Education Center, Harry is powered by artificial intelligence, allowing him to answer questions and respond to various medical scenarios on the fly.
The $1 million center is named in honor of Dr. Matthew Latacha, a dedicated cardiologist who passed away in September 2023 after a tragic accident. His legacy continues through this facility, which reflects his passion for patient care and staff education.
“Dr. Latacha believed that staff should understand the reasons behind their work and have opportunities to learn,” said Josie Abboud, President and CEO of Nebraska Methodist Hospital.
The idea for incorporating manikins into training emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Adam Wells, a pulmonologist at the hospital, explained that the pandemic altered training for incoming staff, making it important to practice handling scenarios they might find challenging.
Now, Harry and Sally serve as valuable teaching tools for nursing students. “Many of today’s nursing students missed certain hands-on experiences in their training,” said Clinical Resource Nurse Robyn Sadle. “Using these manikins will help them build essential communication skills with patients.”
The center will also benefit patients and their families. It offers sessions that can demonstrate procedures before they happen and teach techniques for aftercare at home.
Education sessions for patients are starting soon, with nursing students to follow shortly after.
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