Scottish doctors and nurses are improving their skills by training on robot patients, at a new medical training centre opened today.

The Scottish Clinical Simulation Centre based at the Forth Valley Royal Hospital allows NHS staff and students to practise on life-like hi-tech mannequins in simulated operating theatres.

The family of seven robots includes 'Stan', who can respond to anaesthetic gases and is used to train anaesthetists.

Another is 'Reg', who has a heartbeat, can give blood and describe his symptoms. Reg is used to train emergency doctors and nurses.

The family also includes a baby, two children and a pregnant woman mannequin.

Scottish Health Secretary Alex Neil said: "Stan, Reg and the rest of the family are brilliant. Reg was even able to tell me how he was feeling – we had a good chat and I am glad to hear the students here are treating him well.

"Our NHS is moving with the times and taking advantage of new technologies so we can provide the best care ever for patients.

"Scotland has some of the safest hospitals in the world and these new training techniques will make them even safer."

Dr Michael Moneypenny, Director of the Centre, said: "The Scottish Clinical Simulation Centre is focused on improving patient safety using simulation–based education.

"Feedback from course participants has been extremely positive with staff reporting that they feel more confident and skilled in how they apply their knowledge, particularly in managing medical emergencies, which ultimately benefits patients."

Dr Genevieve Lowe, Senior Special Registrar in Anaesthesia, NHS Forth Valley, is one medical professionals who has benefitted from training in the centre.

She said: "The Scottish Simulation Centre is a fantastic addition for medical training. Having participated in many courses provided, simulation has benefitted me in both my technical and non-technical skills, in a safe and non-threatening environment. Having this facility in Scotland is an invaluable resource."

(IT)