Northwestern Anesthesiology Center for Clinical Simulation (NACCS) at Northwestern University is maintained by the Department of Medical Education and the Department of Anesthesiology. NACCS was established to enhance medical education and patient safety, as well as to provide the American Board of Anesthesiology’s Maintenance of Certification in Anesthesiology course (MOCA).
What We Do
NACCS is equipped with advanced tools, including high-fidelity, full-body patient simulators, Tele-sim, virtual simulators, task trainers and audiovisual systems for debriefing. Our expert staff supports everything from scenario design and technical setup to full curriculum development and course delivery.
Serving Our Medical Community
NACCS enhances education across the Department of Anesthesiology and the broader Northwestern medical community. Our participants include:
- Practicing anesthesiologists.
- Residents from multiple specialties.
- CRNAs and students.
- Medical students.
- Hospital nursing staff.
- Community visitors.
Hands-On Learning in a Controlled Setting
Participants conduct "patient care" experiences at NACCS in a controlled environment. An instructor or facilitator monitors their actions and interventions, controlling the physiologic outcomes of the "patient." Performance may be videotaped, allowing participants and instructors to review and discuss the experience later.
The NACCS is permanently housed within an actual operating suite, giving an authentic feel to the educational experience. A separate conference room is used for discussions, reviewing sessions and additional study.
Faculty-Led and Resident-Driven Training
Anesthesiology faculty actively participate in simulation training, and many routinely train resident physicians during the weekly Simulation Tactical Training sessions. In addition, CA-2 and CA-3 residents create and direct training scenarios for these sessions. Fellows also provide simulation instruction.