Written by level 6 Public Relations students from Bournemouth University
Bournemouth University has run a Zombie Apocalypse attack simulation event to benefit first-year and third-year Paramedic students during their course. The simulation allowed future students to experience various medical scenarios they will have to respond to once they leave university.
The simulation will host over 350 paramedic and nursing students at the Old Fire Station across two days with multiple other students, including Marketing Communications and Arts University Bournemouth Special Effects make-up artist students also getting involved to bring the event to life.
One paramedic student talking about the experience said: “This experience has been really important for us because you don't always see real situations like this straightaway on placement.”
While the Zombie Apocalypse theme adds an element of fun for the Paramedic students the simulation is a great learning environment that prepares the students to respond to various incidents that they will encounter in their careers.
Adam Bancroft, the event’s Incident Commander said: “The themes are a bit of fun and with the political climate today we can’t even attempt to replicate or fantasize about those horrific incidents occurring all over the World. What we are simulating is the challenge and ensuring our students understand the processes involved during major incidents no matter what is going on around them.”
The students were given a basic kit with essential medical items and challenged to respond to multiple casualties with varying levels of injuries. To support them through the exercise, students were directed by volunteers from South West Ambulance Service, South Central Ambulance Service, South East Coast Ambulance Service, Wiltshire Ambulance Service, and Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Service, all of whom have years of real-life experience.
Julie Bailey is a Clinical Team Educator at South Central Ambulance Service and volunteered to guide the students through the incident. She said: “We have given up our time today as we have been exactly where these students have been, and we are incredibly invested in their training on this important day. These major incidents can be very difficult and emotionally challenging to respond to so students need to practice these events in a safe space where they can learn and make mistakes.”
For more information about studying Paramedic Science at BU, visit the course pages of the BU website.
