Welcome to the HomeGrown Simulation Solution area of the SIRC website!
Welcome to the HomeGrown Simulation Solutions hub—your go-to resource for creative, cost-effective innovations in clinical simulation. Developed by educators for educators, this collection features DIY tools, clever adaptations, and simulation recipes designed to enhance realism and learning outcomes. Each solution includes clear objectives, curriculum integration ideas, and step-by-step instructions to help you replicate and implement with ease.
This initiative began in 2007 with Margaret (Meg) Meccariello’s inspiring presentation at the INACSL conference, showcasing low-cost simulation solutions. In 2008, the HomeGrown Simulator Contest was launched, and winning entries were published in Clinical Simulation in Nursing. Meg’s dedication to simulation as a transformative teaching strategy lives on through this program. Watch Meg's video describing HomeGrown Solutions to learn more about her legacy.
Explore Solutions by Category
Use the links below to browse educator-submitted innovations. Each category includes a list of solutions.
- AI Simulation Solutions (Coming Soon) – Innovations using artificial intelligence to enhance simulation realism
- Enhancing Manikin Functionality – Modifications and add-ons for manikins to expand their capabilities
- Equipment – Tools, devices, and systems that support simulation scenarios and improve training environments
- Medical Supplies – Simulated or repurposed medical items used to teach clinical procedures and patient care
- Moulage Ideas – Creative techniques for simulating wounds, injuries, and other visual effects to enhance realism
- 3D Printing (Coming Soon) – Custom-designed simulation components created using 3D printing technology
- Everyday Solutions – Practical, low-cost innovations that use common materials and don’t fall under the other defined categories
Submit Your Own Solution
Have a clever simulation hack or homemade tool? Share it with the community! Visit the How to Submit a HomeGrown Solution page for submission guidelines, evaluation criteria, and the application form. Together, we’re building better learning experiences, one HomeGrown Solution at a time.
Featured Innovations
Highlighting our most recent submissions:
Helping Hands: Cost Effective Pediatric Simulation - Cassie Burks and Alissa Parrish
Gloved Hand Incision and Drainage (I&D) Model - Christy Shaw, Anjanetta Davis, and Colin Garfunkel
Reusable IV & Blood Product Simulation Bags - Valerie Nicholson
IV Fluid Management Collection System - Shirley Valentin-Loriston, Leona Demps
AI Simulation Solutions
Enhancing Manikin Functionality
Equipment
Medical Supplies
| AUTHOR | TITLE | DATE POSTED |
| Kimberly Muma | Unit Dose Medication Packages | May 28, 2015 |
| Kimberly Muma | Carb Counting & Basal Bolus Insulin Administration Using Simulated Hospital Food Trays | May 28, 2015 |
| Cara Jaye Francesca Garcia | Improvised CVP Monitoring Simulator | July 13, 2015 |
| Diane Fleming Myers, JP Pickett | The Syphon Long-Lasting Injection Pad | November 25, 2024 |
| Andrea Brady | Simulated Antiseptic Disk Catheter Dressing | January 7, 2025 |
| Jessica Hoy | Homemade Pyxis | January 23, 2025 |
| Valerie Nicholson | Reusable IV and Blood Product Simulation Bags | December 3, 2025 |
Moulage Ideas
3D Printing
Everyday Solutions
| AUTHOR | TITLE | DATE POSTED |
| Laurel Bergren | Clay Wound Model | January 12, 2015 |
| Kelley Connor | Creating a Scenario-Specific Medication Administration Record | January 22, 2015 |
| Jeff Carmack | Urinary Catheterization Pants for Standardized Patients | July 15, 2016 |
| Jeff Carmack | Adaptation of Birthing Simulator Abdomen for More Realistic Postpartum Hemorrhage | July 16, 2016 |
| Mary Leigh | NGT/NT Suction Task Trainer | November 6, 2020 |
| Stacia Donaldson | Simple Foley / NG Tube Task Trainer | April 30, 2021 |
| Danaiet Teame and Ryan Arquero | Operating High Fidelity Manikins Remotely | March 3, 2022 |
| Stephanie McKee | Caboodle Noodle | April 24, 2024 |
| Patsy Hicks | Pin the PPE on the Health Care Worker | May 23, 2024 |
| Tammy Wyland | Safe IV Exhibit | September 9, 2024 |
| Stephanie McKee | Caboodle Noodle 2.0 | September 9, 2024 |
| Tracy Jenkins | Structured Simulation Observer Form | January 7, 2025 |
| Tammy Wyland | Fill Station for IVs and Flushes | January 7, 2025 |
| Latoya Smith | Oxygen on Board: A Hemoglobin Journey | January 7, 2025 |
| Laura Liggett, Brandi Snow, Carolina Tennyson | Triage Tabletop Simulation | January 23, 2025 |
| Amber Stoltenberg | Seizure Escape Room | January 29, 2025 |
| Megan Lynch | May 8, 2025 | |
| Stephanie McKee | A Safe Duck | July 17, 2025 |
| Ciara Berry | Simulated CVC Line for Blood Sampling | August 26, 2025 |
| Shirley Valentin-Loriston, Leona Demps | IV Fluid Management Collection System | December 3, 2025 |
Ready to Innovate?
Explore, contribute, and connect with fellow simulation educators. Your next great idea could be the next HomeGrown Solution! Learn how to submit a HomeGrown Solution.
HomeGrown Disclaimer
The information contained within this website is for information purposes only. While the website is monitored in an attempt to keep the information up to date and accurate, be aware that there are no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, and/or suitability being made. The sponsors of this website are not liable for any loss or damage that may result from using information contained within this website. Any reliance you place on the information contained within this website is strictly at your own risk.
Please note that sections of this website include postings of individuals not associated with the website sponsors. These postings are not endorsed or warrantied by the website, and use of such information is at your own risk.
Always check the user guide/manuals provided by the manufacturer of your manikin or task trainer. Using products that are not sanctioned may invalidate the product warranty. (For example: Some products could stain the skin on a manikin. Liquids used around electrical parts may cause malfunctions.)