Fund-A-Need

What is simulation? 

State-of-the-art technology that uses a computer-programmed, controlled mannequin to produce a realistic, acute medical issue—such as a cardiac arrest, allergic reaction, or epileptic seizure—that health care providers can respond to in a safe learning environment. 

Why is it important for pediatric care? 

Seconds matter during acute events like a heart attack or anaphylaxis. But because children have lower rates of severe illness or cardiac arrest than adults, pediatric health care providers have less experience addressing acute events. Simulation allows providers and trainees to practice saving lives before acute events happen. 

Patient quality and safety improves. Health care team members learn new protocols, practice performing procedures effectively, and hone vital teamwork and communication skills— all in a fully interactive manner without the risk of harm to children. 

It is an essential professional education tool for health care team members helping Golisano Children’s Hospital attract top pediatric residents, fellows, nurses, advanced practice providers, physicians, respiratory therapists, and pharmacists. 

Golisano Children’s Hospital has a community responsibility to lead health and care initiatives for infants, children, and adolescents. We are the only pediatric hospital in upstate New York that offers an advanced level of specialized care and are the regional referral center for pediatric care for more than 15 counties and 19 community hospitals. 

Support This Year's Fund-a-Need for Golisano Children's Hospital

Golisano Children’s Hospital (GCH) consistently strives to be a national model in the training of exceptional pediatric residents and fellows and the delivery of outstanding care, not only for the 85,000 children and families that visit us each year, but for all children wherever they are treated. 

Today, pediatric simulation training occurs in our hallways, conference rooms, or wherever providers can use this technology in close proximity to patients. The equipment we use is rented. Your support of this year’s Fund-A-Need will launch us on our way to creating the premier simulation center in our region. Specifically, your gift will help us raise $1.7 million to: 

• Create a Pediatric Simulation Center at GCH on the first floor off the main lobby, allowing providers and trainees to practice simulation exercises while staying in close proximity to their patients.
• Purchase four lifelike mannequins—a newborn, baby, child, and adolescent mannequin to create the most realistic simulation experience. 
• Purchase vital equipment and supplies such as beds and patient monitoring equipment—everything needed in a typical hospital room—as well as in a control room to assess provider and trainee performance. 

Whether you lead this effort with a Fund-A-Need gift of $100,000, one in the $10,000 to $50,000 range, or in the $50 to $5,000 range, you will help us save lives as the regional experts in pediatric medicine.

It is our obligation to the region to be prepared when medical emergencies happen, and to train the community around us.”

—Jill Cholette '99 (MD), '03 (RES), '06/'14M (FLW)
Gordon Family Professor in Pediatrics
Professor, Pediatric Critical Care