Assembly and use of a low-cost paracentesis simulator for the teaching of puncture and drainage of ascites

Abstract

Objectives: to describe the assembly of a low-cost paracentesis simulator and evaluate its effectiveness, acceptance and impact on the learning of medical students. Methodology: a paracentesis simulator was built using a mannequin and materials such as plastic bottles, Velcro, polyvinyl chloride sheets and silicone were used. A cross-sectional and experimental study was carried out with undergraduate medical students without previous practical experience with paracentesis, which sought to validate the model, evaluating its benefits in learning and obtaining technical skills. Results: after using the simulator there was an increase of 82.4% in the level of confidence in performing paracentesis in a patient, with 98% of respondents considering that the model fulfilled the simulator function with satisfaction, and 100% considering it useful as a teaching tool. Conclusion: the built simulator was effective as an educational resource, serving as an alternative to high-cost commercial models, allowing for greater accessibility in the use of this tool in medical education.

Low-cost simulator for intra-abdominal bleeding

“…Faced with the great difficulty of teaching technical skills and emotional control to young surgeons confronting major abdominal bleeding, the use of simulators is a valid and consolidated method in medical education. Among the simulators, there are different options as to technological complexity, fidelity, physical or virtual structure, and costs associated with their construction 3 , 4 .…”

“…The establishment of continuous simulation practices allied to the theoretical curriculum improves learning, both subjectively, that is, with students reporting improvement in their operational skills, and objectively 3 . There are different simulation models, some of high technology and complexity involving virtual tools, and some of human performance, both being expensive and available only in large centers.…”

Simulador de baixo custo para sangramento intra-abdominal

“…Diante da grande dificuldade de ensinar habilidades técnicas e controle emocional ao jovem cirurgião diante do grande sangramento abdominal, a utilização de simuladores é método válido e consolidado na educação médica. Dentre os simuladores, há opções diversas quanto à complexidade tecnológica, fidelidade, estrutura física ou virtual e custos associados à sua construção 3,4 .…”

“…A instituição de práticas contínuas de simulação aliadas ao currículo teórico melhora o aprendizado, tanto de maneira subjetiva, ou seja, com estudantes relatando aprimoramento de suas habilidades operatórias, quanto de maneira objetiva 3 . Há diferentes modelos de simulação, alguns de alta tecnologia e complexidade que envolvem ferramentas virtuais, outros simuladores de performance humana, ambos são de alto custo e disponíveis apenas em grandes centros.…”