An Unintended Consequence of Simulation: A Case Report

Simulation is recognized as an opportunity to immerse students in scenarios that provide most aspects of real-life medical emergencies in a “no-consequences” learning environment. It is widely accepted that simulation has few, if any, negative effects on participants. This case report describes a situation in which real-life implications infiltrated the “safe” simulated learning environment designed by faculty. It is the responsibility of faculty and administrators to be aware that strong feelings and emotions can be triggered by simulators or by immersion in a simulated patient care environment and to take precautions to minimize their occurrence.