Nursing Simulation Building Study

The School of Nursing at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is a highly regarded program that prepares students for a fast-paced career in health care.  The School recognized the need to offer a more dynamic learning experience to prepare students for the demands of nursing through simulated learning.  Oates Associates was part of a team that evaluated options for a nursing simulation building.

The School is located in Alumni Hall on SIUE’s main campus.  Two sites adjacent to Alumni Hall were evaluated for an addition with selection factors including parking, utilities and aesthetics.  An addition to the north of the building was the standout location with the preferred infrastructure being a two-story building with a basement.  A two-story structure allows for the most functionality with a second-story connection to Alumni Hall and space for expansion in the basement.

The proposed 20,000 square foot building will house an advanced practice lab, operating room, virtual reality room, lecture hall, exam rooms, debriefing rooms, nurses station and of course, simulation rooms.  Support spaces include a student lounge, locker room, office spaces and reception areas.  The simulation spaces provide flexibility in learning with hands-on experience for large and small group instruction.

Oates Associates provided site and structural analyses for the building to determine optimal location and structural performance – and assisted in preparing a preliminary cost.