Simulator to Monitor Connectivity Simplified using a BASIC Software GUI

Abstract

Background: Inter-manufacturer compatibility between manikins has consistently been an issue in healthcare simulation. Differences in scenario programming products, electronic communication protocols, and even in terminology create problems for simulation technical staff and simulation manikin users. One issue that has been especially problematic is the need for dedicated virtual patient monitors for each simulation manikin brand, and often for different simulators within the same brand. This causes additional work for setups, wear and tear on equipment and staff, and ongoing connectivity issues.

Solution: Using freely available software, simulation technical staff created an easy to use software application that executed computer batch files to automatically connect manikins to the virtual patient monitor regardless of manikin brand or model.

Discussion: Beginners' All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code (BASIC) programming language was used to create an interface that reconfigured the computer to allow presentation of the manikin’s virtual patient monitor. The Graphic User Interface (GUI) allows simulation users without technical background to select the manikin being used and have that manikin’s vital signs and wave forms displayed. Creation of the application and GUI has eliminated the need for virtual patient monitors to be dedicated to specific manikins.

Outcome: Implementation of the application and GUI has increased operational efficiencies in the simulation center by eliminating the need for dedicated monitors for specific manikins, created more stable connections with manikins, and reduced wear and tear on staff and equipment from moving monitors throughout the center.

Keywords: GUI, Manikin, Monitor, BASIC