West Windsor, N.J. - Mercer County Community College and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (RWJ) cut the ribbon for a new lab Sept. 24 that will help prepare the college's nursing students for the real world challenges of patient care.

According to MCCC Dean of Science and Health Professions Linda Martin, when the Nursing program expanded to include an online study option in fall 2009, a need was identified for a lab where these students could practice their clinical skills prior to their actual clinical experience under the supervision of nurse educators. RWJ Hamilton agreed to provide lab space in the hospital and MCCC has contributed an 80-lb. mannequin named Anne, created by Laerdal Medical.

Martin explains that Anne comes completely equipped with lungs and stomach and is capable of simulating major bodily functions. Instructors will be able to use a wireless remote to create and edit various scenarios such as breathing problems, heart sounds and more to which students will respond. Students will also use the mannequin to administer medications, insert needles and other functions.

Currently more than 275 students are studying nursing at MCCC. A maximum of 20 enrollees in the online program will take advantage of the new facility at RWJ Hamilton. In addition to the college's Nursing students, the lab will be used for the hospital's continuing education programs.

MCCC President Patricia C. Donohue, who participated in the ribbon cutting along with RWJ President and CEO Anthony Cimino, noted that the MCCC Nursing program has partnered with RWJ Hamilton for many years to train students in the health professions. "With this new lab, our students can hone their clinical skills in a safe and well-equipped setting. This is a double win for the whole community."