In this enlightening episode of SIM Moove, Fouad Marhar engages with Julien Bellanger, a key figure in healthcare simulation at the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg (CHL). Julien shares his journey, from his nursing studies in France to spearheading an innovative simulation project in Luxembourg. With a focus on collaboration, research, and continuous learning, this discussion offers a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and successes of implementing simulation in a small but dynamic healthcare system.
A SIMZINE exclusive based on the SIM Moove podcast interview with Julien Bellanger
Healthcare simulation is revolutionizing medical education worldwide, and Luxembourg is no exception. In a conversation with Julien Bellanger, a leader in simulation at the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg (CHL), we uncover the growth of this essential training tool in one of the smallest but most dynamic countries in Europe. Julien shares his journey, the challenges of introducing simulation in a nascent healthcare ecosystem, and the immense potential for improving patient care through innovative training.
From Nursing to Simulation
Julien’s journey into simulation began as a student nurse in Angers, France. After his initial training, he worked in emergency and intensive care units in Brussels, followed by an eight-year tenure at CHUV in Lausanne, Switzerland, where he specialized in anesthesiology. It was during his time in Lausanne that Julien encountered simulation for the first time.
“As students, we had to validate our practices on difficult intubations in a simulated environment before performing them on real patients,” Julien recalls. “It reduced the stress of the first time and gave us a sense of legitimacy during our clinical placements.” This hands-on approach left a lasting impression on Julien, highlighting the power of simulation to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
In parallel with his clinical work, Julien pursued academic studies in educational sciences, earning a master’s degree. His research repeatedly circled back to simulation as a critical tool in adult education, emphasizing its efficiency and practical relevance.
“What I found fascinating,” Julien explains, “was that simulation directly addressed issues from practice and returned solutions to practice. You could learn something today and apply it tomorrow. That kind of immediacy is invaluable for healthcare professionals who often have limited time for formal training.”
The Birth of a Simulation Culture at CHL
Julien’s move to Luxembourg in 2020 coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially joining CHL as an anesthesiology nurse, Julien found a new opportunity to champion simulation when the hospital underwent a change in leadership. In 2021, Daniela Collas, CHL’s new director of nursing, sought to elevate simulation as a training method, tapping Julien’s expertise to spearhead the effort.
With Daniela’s support, Julien enrolled in a certificate program in simulation at the University of Liège, further refining his skills. By September 2022, CHL’s first simulation session, focused on managing airway obstructions, was underway. Despite technical challenges, the session proved successful and marked the beginning of an ambitious simulation program.
In 2023, the program expanded significantly. CHL recruited and trained a team of simulation educators through short courses, ensuring they had the foundational knowledge and skills to support the growing demand. The results speak for themselves: by October 2024, CHL had launched its first dedicated simulation room, developed 50 scenarios, offered 20 distinct training sessions, and logged over 3,000 hours of simulation-based training.
Collaboration and Innovation: The Luxembourg Context
To understand the broader landscape of simulation in Luxembourg, it’s important to note the country’s healthcare structure. Luxembourg boasts four main hospitals and has recently made significant strides in healthcare education. Nursing education only became fully university-based in 2023, reflecting the relatively young state of healthcare training infrastructure.
Simulation, however, is gaining momentum. Alongside CHL’s program, Luxembourg features several other centers, including a university-affiliated simulation center and one managed by vocational health schools. A notable facility in the south of the country, the Vidong Center, serves as a hub for continuous training, funded collaboratively by the four hospitals. These centers represent a growing commitment to advancing healthcare training through innovative methods.
“At CHL,” Julien notes, “we’re fortunate to have strong support from leadership and a culture that values continuous learning. This is critical for fostering collaboration and innovation in simulation.”
Challenges and Triumphs in Simulation Implementation
Julien’s team faced numerous challenges while building CHL’s simulation program. Early sessions revealed technical hurdles and highlighted the need for meticulous scenario planning. To address this, Julien emphasizes the importance of detailed preparation, from defining educational objectives to anticipating participant reactions and technical glitches.
“The more methodical you are in preparation,” Julien advises, “the more confident and adaptable you can be during sessions. This creates a safe and productive environment for learners.”
Another key challenge lies in proving the effectiveness of simulation training. Julien’s team is currently collaborating with the University on a research project to compare in-situ simulation training for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with traditional Basic Life Support (BLS) methods. This study aims to demonstrate simulation’s added value in improving clinical outcomes and patient care.
Building a Culture of Psychological Safety
Central to CHL’s approach is fostering a culture of psychological safety. Simulation sessions are designed to encourage open dialogue and mutual learning among participants from diverse backgrounds and experience levels. Feedback from participants often highlights the value of these exchanges in breaking down silos and building trust.
“Healthcare professionals appreciate the opportunity to share their experiences in a judgment-free environment,” Julien says. “This sense of community and mutual support is one of the most rewarding aspects of simulation.”
The Future of Simulation in Luxembourg
Looking ahead, Julien is optimistic about the growth of simulation in Luxembourg. With strong institutional support and increasing collaboration among healthcare providers, the foundation is set for continued innovation. However, challenges remain, particularly in scaling simulation to address specialized training needs, such as ECMO procedures or maternal health scenarios. The institution is still seeking external help in these cases.
Julien’s vision for the future includes expanding research initiatives to validate the impact of simulation on patient outcomes. He also hopes to strengthen ties with other simulation centers in Luxembourg and beyond, creating a more cohesive simulation community.
Advice for Aspiring Simulationists
When asked what advice he would offer to those new to simulation, Julien’s response is straightforward: start simple.
“It can feel overwhelming at first,” he admits. “But focusing on clear objectives and methodical preparation can make all the difference. Build confidence in your approach, and don’t hesitate to reach out to others in the field for guidance and collaboration.”
He also underscores the importance of creativity and adaptability, noting that effective simulation doesn’t always require expensive equipment. “You can achieve great results with minimal resources if you’re willing to think outside the box.”
Conclusion
Luxembourg’s journey into healthcare simulation exemplifies the transformative power of collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Under the leadership of visionaries like Julien Bellanger and Daniela Collas, the country is making strides in elevating healthcare training standards and improving patient care.
As Julien aptly puts it, “Simulation isn’t just a training method; it’s a way to bring people together, to learn from each other, and to push the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare.”
Full conversation available in French on SIM Moove
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