Video-Assisted Simulation in Ambulances

At first glance, these vehicles might appear to be standard ambulances used by EMS Vienna—but in reality, they’re fully equipped mobile simulation units on four wheels. This is made possible by an innovative SIMStation network infrastructure, seamlessly built into the vehicle interiors during manufacturing.

With just a few simple steps, the ambulances are transformed into fully operational training spaces, complete with cameras, microphones, and training monitors.

Operation and recording are managed via the mobile AV system SIMStation Go. Within just five minutes, the system is ready to go – enabling realistic simulation scenarios directly inside the emergency vehicle.

This one-of-a-kind solution not only enables flexible, location-independent training – it brings simulation precisely to where every second matters in real life. A powerful step that once again positions EMS Vienna as a pioneer in emergency medical education.

Integrating simulation directly into active emergency vehicles opens up entirely new didactic opportunities. Training takes place where real emergencies unfold – in the teams’ familiar work environment, under realistic conditions. Participants benefit not only from the professional AV equipment but especially from the authenticity of the setting. The built-in AV infrastructure remains nearly invisible and does not interfere with either the training experience or daily emergency operations.

This mobile approach to video-based simulation also offers significant logistical advantages: Trainers come to the team – not the other way around. This allows for spontaneous, on-site training, even unannounced, to sharpen the element of unpredictability. At the same time, it enables crews to make productive use of downtime, without pulling personnel off duty or requiring long travel for off-site training.

“The ambulances equipped with the mobile SIMStation system provide us with completely new perspectives in the training and education of our staff as well as in quality assurance and performance checks.”

Michael Girsa, MBA
Head of the Department of Education and Training of EMS Vienna

Efficiency Meets Quality

These mobile simulation trainings provide the ideal conditions for regular performance assessments. Knowledge and response capabilities can be evaluated and developed in a real-world context, right where the action happens. This not only enhances training quality, but also significantly improves resource efficiency: less downtime, more productive training hours, and a stronger transfer of skills into everyday operations.

And what if a vehicle is currently on a call? No problem. With a total of 18 simulation-enabled ambulances, EMS Vienna has a robust infrastructure at its disposal – a fully operational fleet of mobile training units, ready to deploy across the city.

Simulation at the Heart of Practice

With the expansion of mobile simulation, EMS Vienna is taking a forward-looking step: integrating realistic, video-supported training seamlessly into daily operations – flexibly, efficiently, and with cutting-edge technology.

But it’s not just about assessing knowledge. At its core, this approach fosters confidence in the skills of emergency teams. Simulation becomes an opportunity – to build competence, trust, and readiness. For real emergencies. For the team. And ultimately, for the safety of every patient.