Southeastern nursing program receives new simulation laboratory gift

Thursday, December 14, 2017 nursing simulation lab
by: Tonya Lowentritt

NURSING SIMULATION LAB DEDICATED - Southeastern Louisiana University’s nursing program received a new simulation laboratory through funds donated by Southeastern alumnus John Manzella in memory of his wife Beverly Manzella. The Manzellas were recognized in a recent ceremony naming the simulation lab in their honor. From left are nursing students Madison Bentivegna, Lindsey Barrose, Lauren Domiano, Lydia Ngonogo, Amber Vernon, Manzella, Shiri Lindsey, Troy Connolly and Chante Jones.


     HAMMOND – Southeastern Louisiana University’s nursing program is home to a new simulation pediatric laboratory, made possible through funds donated by Southeastern alumnus John Manzella.
     Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences Ann Carruth said in today’s medical environment quality of care is paramount, and Southeastern’s nursing program ensures its graduates are ready to serve patients from day one with a rigorous process of learning and preparation. Simulation laboratories have become very important in this process.
     “Students need to have a realistic bio-feedback environment where they can practice before they move on to real patients,” she said. “Southeastern has one simulation lab and, thanks to the kindness of John Manzella, will establish a second one to focus on pediatric experiences.”
     “John Manzella and his wife Beverly, who passed away this spring, have been long time supporters of the Southeastern nursing program,” said Vice President for University Advancement Wendy Lauderdale. “This donation and support was a loving way to continue their presence and kindness by helping those who will help others. John was Beverly’s main caregiver during her illness so he understands the importance of quality care.”
     “The simulation lab helped me understand patient responses and needs. It correlated so well with lectures, as it put situations into perspective,” said Southeastern nursing graduate Ashlen Brown. “We were able to physically handle situations and carry out the nursing process.  This pediatric lab will be a great boost to the Southeastern program.”
     “I hope that this simulation lab will make a difference in the lives of these nursing students,” Manzella said. “If it helps them to prepare and learn to be the strong medical caregivers they need to be, our wish has come to fruition.”
     “The new pediatric simulation lab for which Mr. Manzella has provided will be an incredible next step for our students. This will give students real-life experiences much like they will have in clinical training,” Carruth added. “It will also give students access to scenarios that are deemed ‘low-volume, high-risk,’ providing invaluable practice to manage urgent health issues that rarely occur yet have a serious risk level.”
     Lauderdale said the support of the Manzellas will serve the needs of hospital patients for many years to come as Southeastern nursing students graduate prepared and ready for careers in which they take care of others.




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