Paul, the Premature Infant Simulator, Creates Realistic Training for UF Health Staff

His skin turns blue when he needs oxygen; his abdomen becomes distended. He even cries out in pain. He may be made of synthetic materials, but Paul, the premature infant simulator, produces an authentic experience for those who train with him.

Tom LeMaster, director of operations for the UF Center for Experiential Learning and Simulation, says Paul will be used regularly in the UF Health Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, or NICU, for in situ trainings, in which staff who regularly work together participate in a simulation training in the real patient environment. Paul was acquired by the UF Center for Experiential Learning and Simulation and the UF division of neonatology.

UF Health neonatologist Nicole Cacho, D.O., M.P.H., has trained with Paul in the UF Health NICU, and she says the mannequin’s realistic conditions provide critical training for low-frequency, high-risk situations.

Learn more about Paul, the Premature Infant Simulator, Creates Realistic Training for UF Health Staff.