Objectives: Introduce an expanding role for pediatric critical care and medical simulation to optimize the care for children with technology dependence.

Data sources: Limited review of literature and practice for current teaching paradigms, vulnerability of the patient population, and efficacy of simulation as a medical educational tool.

Conclusions: In accordance with new care models and patient need, critical care requires parallel evolution of care practices, including new educational and care models, in order to maximally reduce risk, fear, and anxiety and to insure quality and consistent care in the community for patients and families transitioning between the ICU and home environments.