Orientation activities were held recently for new practical nursing students in preparation for fall classes at East Central Community College in Decatur. Part of the day’s activities included an “introduction” to the SIM Man by Melanie Pinter, practical nursing instructor, as shown above. The SIM Man is a high fidelity mannequin that is used as a teaching tool for fundamental skills as well as advanced skills. “He can breathe, talk, cough, etc., and can basically do anything a human can do except walk,” said Pinter. She said students “take care” of the SIM Man “as if he were a real patient.” Students also received information from various College areas including Student Services, Technology Management and Financial Aid. Nursing school philosophy, policies and ethics were also presented to the 30 students who begin classes for the 12-month program Thursday, Aug. 19. Also serving on the practical nursing faculty are Theresa Cole and Alicia Lundstrom. For more information, contact Dr. Betsy Mann, dean of healthcare education, 601-635-2111 or call toll free, 877-462-3222, ext. 294. The e-mail address is bmann@eccc.edu.