Clin Sim, Radiology test weekend emergency readiness

This past November, UAB Clinical Simulation was working for the weekend—literally. 

In collaboration with UAB Medicine radiology leadership, the sim center’s systems team developed an in situ resuscitation simulation to be held unannounced on a Saturday in The Kirklin Clinic’s basement MRI suite.

In situ (on-site) simulation is a sim-based learning experience integrated into actual clinical environments, involving participants who are on-duty clinical team members during their actual workday. 

According to April Belle, director of systems simulation, the goal was to focus on weekend readiness. For radiology educator Ashley Thomas, the decision to host the drill was driven by real-world urgency. 

“I decided to host this simulation after a patient safety event occurred on a Saturday,” Thomas said, adding that the goal was simple but critical. “We recognized the need to strengthen staff confidence and competency in managing emergency situations after hours. This simulation was created to give the team hands-on practice, reinforce proper protocols and ensure everyone feels prepared to respond safely and effectively when unexpected events occur—no matter the day of the week.” 

During the scenario, MRI staff responded to a simulated patient cardiac arrest, activating internal emergency procedures and coordinating with security and the Medical Emergency Team. The exercise mirrored the realities of weekend operations, testing how teams communicate, navigate tight spaces and access essential equipment. 

Thomas stressed the broader learning objectives that emerged. 

“The goal was for the staff to feel prepared to intervene promptly and appropriately,” she said. 

From a systems perspective, Belle said the event validated both the value of in situ testing and the need for continual refinement. Drawing on post-simulation findings, Belle emphasized that the scenario highlighted communication challenges and the complexity of navigating equipment and space within the MRI environment, while also creating opportunities for staff to strategize improved team coordination and better integration with security partners—especially during reduced weekend staffing.  

Thomas was grateful for the collaboration and the experience it provided. 

“(The Clinical Simulation) team provides a safe, structured environment, where staff can practice high-risk, low-frequency events and gain confidence in their skills,” she said. “They help uncover system gaps, strengthen communication, and reinforce best practices in a way that traditional education cannot.” 

UAB Medicine’s Clinical Simulation program offers opportunities for individuals and teams across UAB Medicine and beyond to practice before they deliver care. We encourage all who provide and support patient care to “Sim First.” Together, we can put our patients’ safety first.