Design of an Intramuscular Injection Simulator: Accommodating Cultural Differences

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Nursing Education
• Anatomical Modeling

Background:

• An inexpensive intramuscular (IM) injection simulator was developed and evaluated by Canadian nurses.
• Feedback indicated the simulator was more realistic than previous models but had issues with density and shape.
• The simulator's suitability for diverse ethnic contexts required further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the acceptability and identify necessary design modifications of an IM injection simulator in a different ethnic context (Singapore).
• To compare feedback from Singaporean nurses with that of Canadian nurses.
• To highlight the importance of ethnic considerations in medical simulator design.

Main Methods:

• An IM injection simulator was tested by 21 nurses at Singapore General Hospital.
• Nurses completed the same survey used in previous testing with Canadian nurses.
• Feedback on realism, anatomical appropriateness, and specific features was collected and compared.

Main Results:

• Only 26% of Singaporean nurses found the simulator to be a more ethnically appropriate anatomical representation.
• Significant differences in feedback were observed compared to Canadian nurses, including perceptions of the fat layer's thickness.
• The simulator's density and shape were also points of critique in the Singaporean cohort.

Conclusions:

• The IM injection simulator requires design improvements to be a valuable teaching tool for nursing students, particularly in Singapore.
• Ethnicity is a critical factor to consider during the design of medical training simulators.
• While cost-effective, the simulator's current design limitations hinder its universal applicability.