Development and Validation of a Model for Training Equine Phlebotomy and Intramuscular Injection Skills.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Medical Simulation
• Equine Practice

Background:

• Bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application of clinical skills is crucial in veterinary education.
• Traditional training methods, such as cadaver use, have limitations in availability and repetitive practice.
• Simulation offers a promising alternative for skill development in veterinary medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate a novel equine neck model for teaching jugular phlebotomy and intramuscular (IM) injections.
• To compare the learning outcomes of students trained using the model versus those trained on equine cadavers.
• To assess the perceived realism and utility of the simulation model by experienced veterinarians and students.

Main Methods:

• Development of a low-fidelity equine neck model for practicing specific procedures.
• Survey of experienced veterinarians regarding the model's realism and features.
• Randomized experimental study comparing first-year veterinary students trained on the model (n=48) versus equine cadavers (n=45).
• Performance assessment using checklists and global rating scales for jugular phlebotomy and IM injections on live horses post-training.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in post-training performance for jugular phlebotomy between model-trained and cadaver-trained students (p=.99 for checklist, p=.78 for global rating).
• No significant difference in post-training performance for IM injections between model-trained and cadaver-trained students (p=.76 for checklist, p=.75 for global rating).
• Experienced veterinarians found the model acceptable, and students reported it was as helpful as cadavers for learning.

Conclusions:

• The equine neck simulation model is a valid and effective tool for teaching jugular phlebotomy and IM injections to veterinary students.
• The model provides comparable learning outcomes to traditional cadaver training.
• This simulation model can be integrated into the veterinary student curriculum to enhance practical skill development.